KR102574235B1 - Tactile elements for deadfront glass and methods for manufacturing the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A deadfront article comprising a tactile element formed on a first surface of a substrate and a visual element disposed on a second surface of the substrate opposite the first surface. The tactile element is positioned on the first surface of the substrate in a manner complementary to a visual element disposed on the second surface of the substrate. The tactile element may include a surface roughness portion having a surface roughness different from the surface roughness of a region bordering the surface roughness portion. Deadfront articles can be incorporated into automotive interiors to provide visual and haptic display interfaces to users.

Description

Tactile elements for deadfront glass and methods for manufacturing the same

This application is related to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/729,695 filed on September 11, 2018, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/679,278 filed on June 1, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/679,278 filed on September 12, 2017. No. 62/557,502, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

This disclosure relates to a deadfront article on display methods and devices for providing improved visual and optionally tactile features on a substrate. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to deadfront articles having a tactile feel on the front surface of the deadfront article.

Recently, consumer products, including automobile interior components, have been using more touch screens and dead-front type control displays and fewer push-buttons and knobs. Oriented control has been incorporated. A deadfront article includes a surface that exhibits a deadfront effect that hides or obscures the underlying display features from the viewer when the article is not backlit, but leaves the display features visible when the article is backlit. .

Therefore, there is a need for innovation in touch screen and dead-front type control displays.

The present disclosure relates to deadfront articles for consumer products that provide a tactile decorative surface. The disclosed deadfront articles can be incorporated into consumer products to provide a surface with a decorative appearance (e.g., stainless steel, wood, etc.), tactile feel, and basic control features (e.g., display buttons/icons). You can. The disclosed deadfront articles can be used to create tactile, shiny, lightweight, strong, decorative, and functional surfaces in a variety of industries. For example, the disclosed deadfront article can be used in the automotive industry to provide a deadfront control display with haptic features.

In a first aspect, a deadfront article is described, the deadfront article comprising: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a visual element disposed on and/or within the second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface; At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and including one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically a tactile element positioned on the first surface of the substrate in a complementary fashion; a semi-transparent layer disposed on at least a first portion of the second surface of the substrate, the semi-transparent layer having an area of a single color or an area of a design of two or more colors; and a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the region, wherein the contrast layer enhances the visibility of the color of the region or increases the visibility of the color of the region on the portion of the region where the contrast layer is disposed. It is designed to enhance the contrast between the colors of a design.

In a second aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of the preceding paragraph has: (i) a zone of relatively higher surface roughness bounded by at least one zone of relatively lower surface roughness, and (ii) a relative may include one or more portions of surface roughness defined by one of the zones of relatively lower surface roughness bounded by at least one zone of higher surface roughness.

In a third aspect, a deadfront article according to any aspect of the preceding paragraph may include graphics including icons.

In a fourth aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any of the preceding paragraphs may include one or more surface roughness portions comprising an etched portion of the first surface of the substrate.

In a fifth aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any of the preceding paragraphs may comprise a first surface, wherein a majority of the total surface area of the first surface of the substrate comprises a first surface roughness; , the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile element cover a small portion of the total surface area of the first surface and include a second surface roughness that is different from the first surface roughness. In some embodiments, the second surface roughness may be relatively rougher than the first surface roughness. In some embodiments, the second surface roughness may have a R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm. In some embodiments, the first surface roughness may be relatively rougher than the second surface roughness. In some embodiments, the first surface roughness may have a R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm.

In a sixth aspect, a deadfront article according to any aspect of the preceding paragraph may comprise a substrate comprising a material selected from the group consisting of glass, glass ceramic, and polymer.

In a seventh aspect, a deadfront article according to any aspect of the preceding paragraph may include a substrate including tempered glass.

In an eighth aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any of the preceding paragraphs may include a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer, such that the contrast layer is semi-optical with the high optical density layer. It is located between the transparent layers. In some embodiments, the high optical density layer at least partially defines the graphics.

In a ninth aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any one of the preceding paragraphs, wherein, in at least a portion of the visual element defined by the high optical density layer, the contrast layer is positioned between the semi-transparent layer and the color layer. It may include a color layer disposed in the area of the visual element.

In a tenth aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any one of the preceding paragraphs may comprise an area of the semi-transparent layer having a design in two or more colors, wherein the design comprises a leather grain pattern, It includes at least one of a wood grain pattern, a fabric pattern, a brushed metal finish pattern, and a logo.

In an eleventh aspect, a deadfront article according to the aspect of any of the preceding paragraphs may include a touch panel positioned behind the visual element, wherein the touch panel is configured to respond to a touch by a user.

In a twelfth aspect, an automobile interior is described, the automobile interior comprising: a substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a visual element disposed on and/or within a second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface; At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and comprising one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically complementary to the first surface of the substrate. a tactile element located on the surface; a semi-transparent layer disposed on a second surface of the substrate layer; a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the semi-transparent layer; and a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer and at least partially defining the graphic; and a touch panel located behind the visual element and configured to respond to a touch by a user.

In a thirteenth aspect, a car interior according to the aspects of the preceding paragraph may include a graphic that is an icon, and the touch panel is configured to respond to a user's touch of the icon.

In a fourteenth aspect, an automobile interior according to the aspect of any one of the preceding two paragraphs may comprise a semi-transparent layer having areas of a single color or areas of a design of two or more colors, wherein the design includes a leather grain pattern, It includes at least one of a wood grain pattern, a fabric pattern, a brushed metal finish pattern, and a logo.

In a fifteenth aspect, an automobile interior according to the aspect of any one of the preceding three paragraphs comprises a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer such that the contrast layer is positioned between the high optical density layer and the semi-transparent layer. It can be included.

In a sixteenth aspect, an automobile interior according to the aspect of any one of the preceding four paragraphs is provided, wherein, in at least a portion of the visual element defined by the high optical density layer, the contrast layer is located between the semi-transparent layer and the color layer. , may include a color layer disposed in the area of the visual element.

In a seventeenth aspect, a method of forming a tactile element on a deadfront article is described, the method comprising forming a second surface of the substrate within and/or opposite the first surface such that a graphic may be viewed through the first surface. forming at least one tactile element on the first surface of the substrate in a manner complementary to the graphics defined by the visual elements disposed on the surface; Here, the at least one tactile element is formed by a process comprising at least one of etching, sandblasting, polishing, and engraving.

In an eighteenth aspect, a method according to an aspect of the preceding paragraph may comprise forming at least one tactile element by an etching process. In some embodiments, the etching process includes etching the first surface with a first etching solution; etching the first surface with the first etching solution and then placing a mask over the first surface, the mask comprising a shape corresponding to the shape of the graphic; and etching an unmasked area of the first surface with the second etching solution. In some embodiments, the first etching solution may include hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, and a water-miscible organic solvent, and the second etching solution may include hydrofluoric acid.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the following detailed description, and will be apparent in part to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, or may be incorporated into the embodiments described herein, including the following detailed description, claims, as well as the accompanying drawings. It will be easily recognized by running it.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing background and the following detailed description are representative only and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claims. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiments and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain the principles and operation of the various embodiments.

1 is a perspective view of a vehicle interior with a vehicle interior system utilizing deadfront articles in accordance with one or more embodiments discussed herein.
2 shows a display with a monochromatic deadfront article with the display turned off, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 illustrates a display with the deadfront article of FIG. 2 with the display turned on, according to an exemplary embodiment.
4 shows a display with a patterned deadfront article with the display turned off, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 5 shows a display with the deadfront article of FIG. 4 with the display turned on, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 6 is a side-cross-sectional view of a deadfront article for display with a semi-transparent layer and a contrast layer, according to an exemplary embodiment.
7 is another side view of a deadfront article for display with a functional surface layer and an opaque layer, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 8 is a side-cross-sectional view of an LED display incorporating a deadfront article, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 9 is a side-cross-sectional view of a DLP MEMS chip including a deadfront article, according to an exemplary embodiment.
10 is a side-cross-sectional view of a deadfront display with touch-screen functionality, according to an exemplary embodiment.
11 is a leather grain deadfront display for a vehicle interior, according to a representative embodiment.
12 is a woodgrain deadfront display for a vehicle interior, according to a representative embodiment.
Figures 13a and 13b show the front and back sides of a glass layer with a printed semi-transparent layer.
14A and 14B show front and back views of a glass layer with printed semi-transparent and contrast layers, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 15 shows contrast layers of various whiteness printed on a glass sheet, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 16 is a graph of transmittance for a contrast layer with varying transmittance, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 17 shows four different-patterned semi-transparent layers for a deadfront article, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 18 shows a deadfront article with a semi-transparent layer that transitions from leather grain to a single black color, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 19 shows a knit-patterned semi-transparent layer for a deadfront article.
Figure 20 shows a knit-patterned semi-transparent layer for a deadfront article with a contrast layer printed behind, according to an exemplary embodiment.
21 and 22 show front and back views of a deadfront article with a marble-patterned semi-transparent layer with a window in the contrast layer, according to representative embodiments.
Figure 23 is a side view of a curved glass deadfront article for use with a display, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of a glass layer for the glass deadfront article of FIG. 6 prior to curve formation, according to an exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 25 illustrates a curved deadfront article including a glass layer shaped to conform to a curved display frame, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 26 illustrates a process for cold forming a deadfront article including a glass layer into a curved shape, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 27 illustrates a process for forming a curved deadfront article comprising a curved glass layer, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 28 is an exploded view of the layers of a deadfront article, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 29 shows a wood grain deadfront article, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 30 shows a wood grain deadfront article with a lighted back, according to an exemplary embodiment.
31 illustrates a woodgrain deadfront article with an illuminated backside and differently colored icons, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 32 shows a carbon fiber pattern deadfront article with too high an opacity.
Figure 33 shows the deadfront article of Figure 32 with an illuminated back side, where a high level of opacity obscures the icon.
Figure 34 illustrates a carbon fiber patterned deadfront article having an opacity within the disclosed range, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 35 shows the deadfront article of Figure 34 with an illuminated backside showing icons for better visibility.
36 shows a deadfront article with a touch panel, according to an exemplary embodiment.
Figure 37 shows a top and perspective view of a substrate article with both visual and tactile features.
38 and 39 show schematic images of a substrate as it moves through a process for placing visual and tactile features on the substrate.
Figure 40 shows a schematic image of a substrate as it moves through an optional process to place visual and tactile features on the substrate.
Figure 41 shows a backlit deadfront article with visual elements visible through the surface of the article.
Figure 42 shows tactile elements on the surface of a deadfront article when the article is not backlit.

Referring generally to the drawings, vehicle interior systems may include a variety of different flat or curved surfaces designed to be transparent, such as flat or curved display surfaces, and the present disclosure describes such flat or curved surfaces. Provides methods and articles for forming. In one or more embodiments, this surface is formed of a glass material or a plastic material. The formation of curved or flat vehicle surfaces from glass materials can offer many advantages compared to conventional curved or flat plastic panels traditionally found in vehicle interiors. For example, glass is typically considered to provide improved functionality and user experience for many flat or curved cover material applications, such as display applications and touch screen applications, compared to plastic cover materials.

Moreover, in many applications it is considered desirable to mount displays with a deadfront appearance, especially displays for vehicle interior systems. Typically, a deadfront appearance blocks the visibility of underlying display components, icons, graphics, etc. when the display is off, but (in the case of a touch-enabled display) when the display is on or activated. Makes display components easier to see. Additionally, articles that provide a deadfront effect (i.e., deadfront articles) can be used to match the color or pattern of the article to adjacent components to eliminate the visibility of transitions from the deadfront article to surrounding components. there is. This can be particularly useful if the deadfront article is a different material than the surrounding components (for example, the deadfront article is formed of a glass material, but is surrounded by a leather-covered center console). You can. For example, a deadfront article, which may have a wood grain pattern or a leather pattern, is used to match the appearance of the display with surrounding wood or leather components of the vehicle interior system in which the display is mounted (e.g., a wood or leather dashboard). can be used

Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the formation of curved glass-based deadfront articles utilizing cold-forming or cold-bending processes. As discussed herein, curved glass-based deadfront articles and processes for making the same are provided to avoid the defects of conventional glass hot-forming processes. For example, hot-forming processes are energy intensive and increase the cost of forming curved glass components compared to the cold-bending processes discussed herein. Additionally, hot-forming processes typically make application of glass coating layers, such as deadfront inks or pigment layers, more difficult. For example, many inks or pigment materials cannot be applied to a flat piece of glass material prior to the hot-forming process because the ink or pigment materials typically cannot withstand the high temperatures of the hot-forming process. . Moreover, application of ink or pigment material to the surface of a curved glass article after hot-bending is substantially more difficult than application to a flat glass article.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to deadfront articles having a tactile area on the front surface. As the use of touch screens and deadfront type displays increases, the importance of aesthetic features and integration of form and function also increases. Deadfront articles that facilitate visual and tactile interaction with the user make interaction with the article more convenient for the user. A deadfront article having a tactile zone provides a "feeling" for a user on a decorated surface having the appearance of any imaged material (e.g., carbon fiber, stainless steel, wood, etc.) when the deadfront article is turned off. You can create "invisible" controls.

1 shows a vehicle interior 10 comprising three different vehicle interior systems 100, 200, and 300, according to a representative embodiment. The vehicle interior system 100 includes a center console base 110 having a flat or curved surface 120 containing a display, shown as flat or curved display 130 . The vehicle interior system 200 includes a dashboard base 210 having a curved surface 220 containing a display, represented as a flat or curved display 230 . Dashboard base 210 typically includes an instrument panel 215, which may also include a flat or curved display. The vehicle interior system 300 includes a dashboard steering wheel base 310 having a curved surface 320 and a display, shown as a flat or curved display 330 . In one or more embodiments, a vehicle interior system may be used to install any part of the interior of a vehicle, including armrests, pillars, seatbacks, floor boards, headrests, door panels, or curved surfaces. It may include a part, a base.

Embodiments of deadfront articles described herein may be used in any or all of the vehicle interior systems 100, 200, and 300. Although Figure 1 shows a vehicle interior, various embodiments of vehicle interior systems include trains, automobiles (e.g., cars, trucks, buses, and the like), including human-piloted vehicles, semi-autonomous vehicles, and fully autonomous vehicles. and the like), vessels (boats, ships, submarines, and the like), and aircraft (e.g., drones, airplanes, jets, helicopters, and the like). Moreover, although the description herein primarily relates to the use of deadfront embodiments used in vehicle displays, it should be understood that the various deadfront embodiments discussed herein may be used in any type of display application. For example, a deadfront article with a tactile area may be an article having a display (or display article) (e.g., a mobile phone, tablet, computer, navigation system, wearable devices (e.g., a watch) and the like), architectural articles (e.g., windows or window assemblies), or home appliance articles (e.g., refrigerators or ranges).

2 and 3, a deadfront article 400 for a vehicle display, such as display 130, 230 and/or 330, is shown and described. Figure 2 shows the appearance of the deadfront article 400 when the light source of the associated display is inactive, and Figure 3 shows the appearance of the deadfront article 400 when the light source of the associated display is activated. As shown in Figure 3, when the light source is activated, a graphic 410 and/or a plurality of icons are visible through the deadfront article. When the light source is deactivated, graphic 410 disappears and deadfront article 400 shows a surface exhibiting the desired surface finish (e.g., the black surface in FIG. 2) uninterrupted by graphic 410. In some embodiments, the light source is activated using power button 420. As shown in the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, power button 420 may be illuminated and change from red to green when activated. In representative embodiments, the power button 420 is selected to comply with one of IEC 60417-5007, IEC 60417-5008, IEC 60417-5009, and IEC 60417-5010.

4 and 5 show another embodiment of a deadfront article 400 for a vehicle display, such as displays 130, 230 and/or 330. Compared to the solid color deadfront article 400 of FIG. 2 , a patterned deadfront article 400 is shown in FIG. 4 . When the light source of the associated display is deactivated, as in Figure 4, only the pattern of the deadfront article 400 can be seen. In FIG. 3 , the light source of the associated display is activated and icon 430 is visible through deadfront article 400 . Accordingly, when the light source is deactivated, the icon 430 disappears and the deadfront article 400 shows a surface exhibiting the desired pattern (e.g., the leather grain pattern in FIG. 4) uninterrupted by the icon 430. .

As discussed in more detail below, deadfront article 400 provides this differential icon display utilizing one or more colored layers disposed between an external substrate and a light source. The optical properties of the color layer are designed such that the border of the icon or other display structure beneath the color layer is not visible when the light source is off, but the graphics 410 and/or icons 430 are visible when the light source is on. In various embodiments, the deadfront articles discussed herein include high contrast icons with the light source turned on and provide a high quality deadfront appearance, combined with the same deadfront appearance when the light source is turned off. It is designed to Moreover, these various deadfront articles can be formed using materials suitable for cold forming into curved shapes, including complex curved shapes, as discussed below.

Referring to FIG. 6 below, a specific example of the structure of the deadfront article 400 is provided. In particular, deadfront article 400 includes at least a substrate 450, a semi-transparent layer 460, and a contrast layer 470. Semi-transparent layer 460 may include areas of a single color or areas of a design in two or more colors. The solid color or two or more designs of the semi-transparent layer can be used to add a decorative color or pattern to the deadfront article 400 (e.g., wood-grain design, leather-grain design, fabric design, brushed metal design, graphic design, solid color and /or logo) can be created. Contrast layer 470 may be configured to enhance the visibility of the colors of semi-transparent layer 460 and/or to enhance contrast between colors of semi-transparent layer 460.

The substrate 450 has an outer surface 480 facing the viewer, and an inner surface 490 on which a semi-transparent layer 460 and/or a contrast layer 470 are at least partially disposed. As used herein, the term “disposition” includes coating, depositing and/or forming a material onto a surface using methods known in the art. The disposed materials may constitute a layer, as defined herein. As used herein, the phrase “disposed on” includes instances of forming a material onto a surface such that the material is in direct contact with the surface, as well as one or more intervening material(s) between the disposed material and the surface. Together with (intervening material(s)), it includes instances where the material is formed on a surface. Intervening material(s) may constitute a layer, as defined herein. The term “layer” may include a single layer or one or more sub-layers. These sub-layers may be in direct contact with each other. The sub-layers may be formed of the same material or two or more different materials. In one or more optional embodiments, these sub-layers may have intervening layers of other materials disposed between them. In one or more embodiments, the layers may include one or more contiguous, uninterrupted layers and/or one or more discontinuous, interrupted layers (i.e., layers formed of different materials adjacent to each other). The layer or sub-layer may be formed by any method known in the art, including individual deposition or sequential deposition processes. In one or more embodiments, the layer may be formed using only a continuous deposition process or, alternatively, a separate deposition process.

Details of the substrate 450 will be discussed in more detail below, but in some embodiments, the substrate 450 has a thickness of 0.05 to 2.0 millimeters. In one or more embodiments, the substrate may be a transparent plastic, such as PMMA, polycarbonate, and the like, or may include a glass material (which may optionally be reinforced). Additionally, as discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, semi-transparent layer 460 is printed on at least a portion of interior surface 490 of substrate 450. In other embodiments, semi-transparent layer 460 is deposited using non-conductive vacuum metallization. Moreover, in some embodiments, the contrast layer 470 is printed on at least a portion of the interior surface 490 of the substrate 450 and/or on at least a portion of the semi-transparent layer 460.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, deadfront article 400 also includes a functional surface layer 500 and/or an opaque layer 510 (also referred to as a “high optical density layer”). Functional surface layer 500 may be configured to provide one or more various functions. In another representative embodiment, the functional surface layer 500 is an optical coating configured to provide easy-cleanability performance, anti-glare properties, anti-reflection properties, and/or a half-mirror coating. These optical coatings can be produced using single or multiple layers. In the case of anti-reflection functional surface layers, these layers can be formed using multiple layers with alternating high and low refractive indices. Non-limiting examples of low-index materials include SiO ₂ , MgF ₂ , and Al ₂ O ₃ , and non-limiting examples of high-index materials include Nb ₂ O ₅ , TiO ₂ , ZrO ₂ , HfO ₂ , and Y ₂ O ₃ . In some embodiments, the total thickness of this optical coating (which may be disposed on an anti-glare surface or a smooth substrate surface) is between 5 nm and 750 nm. Additionally, in some embodiments, the functional surface layer 500 provides easy-to-clean performance, provides an enhanced feel for the touch screen and/or coating/treatment to reduce fingerprints. In some embodiments, the functional surface layer 500 is integral to the outer surface 480 of the substrate. For example, such a functional surface layer may include an etched surface on the outer surface 480 of the substrate 450 to provide an anti-glare surface (or a haze of 2% to 20%). When provided with a substrate 450, the functional surface layer 500 includes a semi-transparent structure 520 of the deadfront article 400, along with a semi-transparent layer 460 and a contrast layer 470. .

As discussed in more detail below, opaque layer 510 has a high optical density to block light transmission. As used herein, “opaque layer” is used interchangeably with “high optical density layer.” In some embodiments, the opaque layer 510 is used to block the transmission of light through specific areas of the deadfront article 400. In certain embodiments, the opaque layer 510 obscures functional or non-decorative elements provided for operation of the deadfront article 400. In other embodiments, the opaque layer 510 may include backlit icons and/or other graphics (e.g., graphics 410 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 and/or power button 420 and icons shown in FIG. 5 ( 430)) to increase contrast at the edges of such icons and/or graphics. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the opaque layer 510 stops at a layer defining a window for the graphic(s) 410, power button(s) 420, and/or icon(s) 430. has That is, in some embodiments, the opaque layer 510 extends continuously until it reaches the edge of the perimeter for the graphic 410, power button 420, and/or icon 430. At this peripheral edge, the opaque layer 510 ceases or, in some embodiments, substantially reduces the optical density (e.g., thins the material thickness, reduces the material density, etc.). In some embodiments, the opaque layer 510 may intermittently restart in the area of the graphics 410, power button 420, and/or icon 430, e.g., in response to a specific power button 420. "|" and “O”, to highlight features of the graphic 410, power button 420, and/or icon 430. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the opaque layer 510 may include graphics 410, power button 420, and/or icons 430 that are viewable by the user through the outer surface 480 of the substrate 450. The image negative for the graphic 410, power button 420, and/or icon 430 is evident in that some of the opaque layer 510 are blank regions.

In certain embodiments, opaque layer 510 may be black or gray; Opaque layer 510 can be any color. In embodiments, the opaque layer 510 is applied via screen printing or inkjet printing over the semi-transparent layer 460 and/or over the interior surface 490 of the substrate 450. Typically, the thickness of the inkjet-printed opaque layer 510 is between 1 μm and 5 μm (micrometers, microns), while the thickness of the screen-printed opaque layer 510 is between 5 μm and 20 μm. Accordingly, the printed opaque layer 510 may have a thickness in the range of 1 μm to 20 μm. However, in other embodiments, opaque layer 510 is a metal layer deposited via physical vapor deposition and/or created using high/low-index stacking discussed above for color matching. It is an optical stack.

FIG. 28 provides an exploded view of the layer comprising deadfront article 400 in an embodiment. As can be seen, the layers include a substrate 450, a semi-transparent layer 460, a contrast layer 470, an opaque layer 510, and a color layer 650. As can be seen in Figure 28, the semi-transparent layer 460 is a wood grain pattern, and the opaque layer 510 has icons 430, such as power button 420, tuning control, volume control, preset ( Provides negative images for entertainment consoles such as presets, etc. The combination of semi-transparent layer 460, contrast layer 470, and opaque layer 510 provides deadfront article 400 as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30. 29 , when the deadfront article 400 is not backlit, the wood grain of the semi-transparent layer 460 is visible, and when the deadfront article 400 is backlit, the icon 430 represents the deadfront article 400. can be seen through the outer surface 480 of. Referring back to Figure 28, when colored layer 650 is placed on opaque layer 510 (at least in areas of icon 430), the color of icons 430 changes to that shown in Figure 31. It can be. Moreover, while a monochromatic layer 650 is shown in FIG. 28 , a colored layer 650 may have multiple colors across the layer and/or in areas of a particular icon 430 or a portion of an icon 430 as shown in FIG. 31 . may contain specific colors. In this manner, color layer 650 is, in some embodiments, a continuous layer, and in other embodiments, color layer 650 is discontinuous, i.e., the color is opaque in the areas that make icon 430 distinct. It may be provided only at certain locations on layer 510 and/or contrast layer 470.

In some embodiments, the optical density of the layers is adjusted to improve visibility of graphics 410, power button 420, and/or icons 430 when deadfront article 400 is backlit. In certain embodiments, the combined optical density of semi-transparent layer 460 and contrast layer 470 in the illuminated area (i.e., graphics 410, power button 420, and/or icon 430) is between 1.0 and 1.0. It is 2.1. In another embodiment, the combined optical density is between 1.2 and 1.6, and in yet another embodiment, the combined optical density is about 1.4. In providing an optical density of the illuminated area, the optical density of contrast layer 470 is, in some embodiments, from 0.9 to 2.0 and the optical density of semi-transparent layer 460 is, in some embodiments, from 0.1 to 0.5. . In non-illuminated areas (i.e., areas surrounding graphics 410, power button 420, and/or icons 430), semi-transparent layer 460, contrast layer 470, and opaque layer 510 ) has a combined optical density of at least 3.4. In providing an optical density of the non-illuminated region, the optical density of contrast layer 470 is, in some embodiments, from 0.9 to 2.0, and the optical density of semi-transparent layer 460 is, in some embodiments, from 0.1 to 2.0. 0.5, and the optical density of opaque layer 510 is, in some embodiments, at least 2.4. In representative embodiments, the optical density of color layer 650 is between 0.3 and 0.7. Moreover, in some embodiments, the optical density of a particular layer can vary across the layer to preserve the material or ink comprising the layer or to provide enhanced contrast. For example, the optical density of contrast layer 470 may be lower in illuminated areas than in non-illuminated areas. Additionally, the optical density of color layer 650 may be lower (or zero) in non-illuminated areas than in illuminated areas.

Figures 32 and 33 and Figures 34 and 35 show different deadfront articles with different levels of optical density, and thus these figures show a deadfront article 400 (Figures 32 and 33) where the optical density is too high in the illuminated area. ) and the deadfront article 400 (FIGS. 34 and 35) whose optical density is within the pre-described range for the illuminated area. As can be seen in Figure 32, the deadfront article has a carbon fiber pattern where the optical density of the semi-transparent layer is too high. Therefore, as can be seen in Figure 33, the illuminated area becomes blurred. By comparison, the deadfront article 400 of FIG. 34 is provided with a carbon fiber pattern in a semi-transparent layer 460, a contrast layer 470, and an opaque layer 510 having optical densities within the previously-mentioned range. Accordingly, as shown in Figure 35, icon 430 becomes much more distinct and clearly visible. Also, as shown in FIG. 35, the central icon 430 is the power button 420 provided in red using a color layer 650.

8 and 9, deadfront article 400 may, in some embodiments, be placed over or in front of display 530. In one or more embodiments, the display may include a touch-enabled display including a display and a touch panel. Representative displays include LED (light emitting diode) displays (FIG. 8), DLP (digital micromirror device) MEMS chips (FIG. 9), LCDs (liquid crystal displays), OLED (organic light emitting diode) displays, transmissive displays, and reflective displays. and the like. In some embodiments, display 530 is attached or mounted to deadfront article 400, for example, using an optically clear adhesive 540. Deadfront article 400 has a transmission of about 5% to 30% along the visible spectrum, i.e., wavelengths from 400 nm to 700 nm. In other words, deadfront article 400 exhibits an average light transmittance in the range of about 5% to about 30% over the entire wavelength range of about 400 nm to about 700 nm. As used herein, the term “transmission” is defined as the percentage of incident optical power within a given wavelength range transmitted through a material (e.g., a deadfront article, substrate, or layers thereof). In some embodiments, deadfront article 400 is a low-transmission deadfront article with a light transmission of 10% or less across the entire visible spectrum. In this case, the opaque layer 510 may not be necessary to obscure the edges of the display 530, i.e., the display border, and/or non-display areas, such as wiring, connectors, etc. In another embodiment, deadfront article 400 is a high transmittance deadfront article exhibiting an average transmittance of about 10% to about 30%. In this embodiment, an opaque layer 510 may be needed to block the non-display area from view.

In certain embodiments, deadfront article 400 is provided with touch functionality as shown in FIG. 10 . 10, deadfront article 400 includes a substrate 450, a black semi-transparent layer 460, and a contrast layer 470 disposed on a portion of the substrate 450 and semi-transparent layer 460. Includes. In this way, the contrast layer 470 and the semi-transparent layer 460 make an icon or graphic, such as the power button 420 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3), distinct. In embodiments, touch functionality is provided by capacitive sensing. In certain embodiments, the capacitive sensor is created by a transparent conductive film or coating 550. In a representative embodiment, transparent conductive film 550 is a polyester (e.g., PET) film coated with a transparent conductive oxide (e.g., indium-tin-oxide (ITO)).

Upon activation of a toggle switch (e.g., by touching the deadfront article 400 in an area of the transparent conductive film 550), the light source 570 is activated or deactivated. In the embodiment of Figure 10, light source 570 includes red LED 580 and green LED 590. In certain settings, such as a vehicle, red LED 580 and green LED 590 indicate the status of deadfront article 400. For example, before turning on the vehicle, both red LED 580 and green LED 590 are turned off, as shown at the bottom of the power button 420 state legend on the left side of Figure 10. When the vehicle is turned on, before touching the power button 420, the red LED 580 is off, while the green LED 590 is off (top state of the legend for the power button 420), and the display 530 is inactive. indicates that Upon touching the power button 420, the toggle switch 560 will turn off the red LED 580, turn on the green LED 590, and activate the display 530. If the user wishes to disable the display 530 while the vehicle is still on, the user can touch the power button 420 again and the toggle switch 560 turns off the green LED 590 and the red LED 580. ) will turn on and block the display 530. In certain embodiments, a vibration motor 600 is provided to provide haptic feedback whenever the toggle switch 560 is activated.

Although a representative embodiment of a power button 420 for display 530 has been provided, touch functionality is suitable for other features. Continuing with the example of a vehicle, touch-functionality is, inter alia, climate control (i.e. heating and air conditioning) systems, radio/entertainment systems, (e.g. speedometer, odometer, trip odometer, tachometer, vehicle warning indicators) , etc.), and center console display panels (e.g., GPS displays, in-vehicle information, etc.). 11, deadfront article 400 is shown as speedometer 610 and climate control 620. Deadfront article 400 includes a leather grain pattern. 12 provides a substantially similar deadfront article 400 with a speedometer 610 and a climate control 620, but the deadfront article 400 includes a wood grain pattern.

In certain embodiments, substrate 450 is processed (e.g., via sandblasting, etching, engraving, etc.) in the area of the button to provide tactile feedback to the user's fingers. In this way, the user can feel the deadfront article 400 for buttons (in a road vehicle setup) without taking their eyes off the road. Moreover, in some embodiments, toggle switch 560 is provided with a delay, for example, 1 to 3 seconds, to avoid accidental activation of toggle switch 560.

36 provides another embodiment of a deadfront article 400 with touch functionality. In particular, deadfront article 400 includes touch panel 660. Touch panel 660 may include a resistive touch panel, a capacitive (e.g., surface or projected) touch panel, a surface acoustic wave touch panel, an infrared touch panel, an optical imaging touch panel, and a distributed signal touch panel. panel, or any of a variety of suitable touch panels, such as an acoustic pulse recognition touch panel. In some embodiments, touch panel 660 is laminated to deadfront article 400 using optically clear adhesive 540. In other embodiments, the touch panel 660 is printed onto the deadfront article 400 such that the optically clear adhesive 540 is unnecessary. Advantageously, the touch panel 660 is cold bendable to provide a three-dimensional shape. Cold bending of the deadfront article 400 (including the touch panel 660) is described in more detail below.

Below, the structure of the deadfront article 400 is described generally with respect to the semi-transparent layer 460 and the contrast layer 470. As described above, semi-transparent layer 460 and contrast layer 470 are disposed on substrate 450. In some embodiments, semi-transparent layer 460 is printed on the substrate using the CMYK color model. In some embodiments where the contrast layer is not white, such as gray, the CMYK color model can also be used to print the contrast layer 470. In another embodiment where the contrast layer 470 is white, a color model incorporating white ink may be used to print the contrast layer 470. Printed semi-transparent layer 460 and printed contrast layer 470 can each have a thickness of 1 μm to 6 μm. In some embodiments, color layer 650 also has a thickness of 1 μm to 6 μm. Moreover, in some embodiments, color layer 650 is printed on opaque layer 510 and/or contrast layer 470. In certain embodiments, color layer 650 is printed on opaque layer 510 and/or contrast layer 470 using the CMYK color model.

The ink used to print the semi-transparent layer 460, contrast layer 470, and/or color layer 650 may be a thermal or UV curable ink. In particular, the ink consists of at least one colorant and a vehicle. The colorant may be soluble or insoluble in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the colorant is a dry colorant in fine powder form. These fine powders, in some embodiments, have particles ranging in size from 10 nm to 500 nm. Using the CMYK color model, colorants provide cyan, magenta, yellow, and/or primary (black) colors. For white inks, the colorant may be any of a variety of suitable pigments, such as TiO ₂ , Sb ₂ O ₃ , BaSO ₄ , BaSO ₄ :ZnS, ZnO, and (PbCO ₃ ) ₂ :Pb(OH) ₂ . The colorant is dissolved or suspended in the vehicle.

The vehicle can act as a binder to create adhesion to the surface to which the ink is applied. Moreover, in some embodiments, additives are included in the vehicle specifically for the purpose of improving adhesion to glass/plastic surfaces. Non-limiting examples of vehicles for colorants include propylene glycol monomethyl ether, diethylene glycol diethyl ether, dimethylacetamide, and toluene. Typically, these vehicles solidify at temperatures between 80°C and 200°C. In some embodiments, the ink includes 0.5% - 6% colorant by volume and 94% - 99.5% vehicle by volume.

13A and 13B, the leather grain semi-transparent layer 460 can be printed using an inkjet printer, particularly according to the CMYK color model (although in other embodiments, other printer types and/or print models may be used). , is printed on the substrate 450. 14A and 14B, a white contrast layer 470 is printed behind the semi-transparent layer 460. Figures 13b and 14b show the back side of these printed layers. As can be seen in the comparison of FIGS. 13A and 14A, the contrast of the leather grain pattern of the semi-transparent layer 460 is enhanced by the white contrast layer 470 in FIG. 14A. In fact, using the contrast layer 470, the overall appearance of the pattern or design in the semi-transparent layer 460 is brighter and the contrast between the colors in the pattern or design is improved.

The thickness and composition of contrast layer 470 can be adjusted to exhibit specific transmission in the visible and infrared wavelength range. Figure 15 shows contrast layer 470 printed on a glass background. Contrast layer 470 has various whiteness (W). As used herein, “whiteness” refers to CIE whiteness, or ISO 11475:2004, which measures the amount of light reflected by a white surface across the visible spectrum (wavelengths from 400 nm to 700 nm). The bottom left corner of Figure 15 is the 100W contrast layer. The whiteness of contrast layer 470 decreases from 100 W to 60 W from left to right along the bottom row, and from 50 W to 10 W along the top row from left to right. As can be seen, the relatively lower whiteness contrast layer 470 transmits more light than the relatively higher whiteness contrast layer 470. This is also shown in the transmittance (T) graph in Figure 16. As whiteness increases, percent transmission (%T) across the visible spectrum decreases. The data to generate the graph of Figure 16 was calculated after printing white ink with Diethylene glycol diethyl ether solvent, using a 128 nozzle, 40 pL printhead. Transmittance (T) is controlled through manipulation of print resolution and layer thickness. In some embodiments, deadfront article 400 is provided with a contrast layer 470 having a whiteness of 10W to 60W. In another embodiment, contrast layer 470 has a whiteness of 20W to 50W. In certain embodiments, contrast layer 470 has a whiteness of 20W to 30W.

FIG. 17 shows four glass substrates 450 with a semi-transparent layer 460 and a contrast layer 470 printed thereon. As can be seen in Figure 17, semi-transparent layer 460 features a design of a knitted fabric pattern, a leather grain pattern, and two wood grain patterns. Figure 18 shows the semi-transparent layer 460 transitioning from a leather grain pattern to a single black pattern. In Figure 18, a green power button is also printed in the lower left corner. Figures 19 and 20 provide a comparison between semi-transparent layers 460 of the same knitted fabric pattern. However, in Figure 20, contrast layer 470 is printed behind semi-transparent layer 460. 20, deadfront article 400 has a transmission of 5% to 10% over the visible spectrum (wavelengths from 400 nm to 700 nm). 21 and 22 show a marble deadfront article 400. In particular, Figure 21 is the viewer's side of the deadfront article 400, while Figure 22 is the back side of the deadfront article 400. As can be seen in FIG. 22, a portion of the semi-transparent layer 460 is not covered by the contrast layer 470. In some embodiments, the display may be installed in a portion not covered by contrast layer 470.

23-27, various sizes, shapes, curvatures, glass materials, etc. for glass-based deadfront articles along with various processes for forming curved glass-based deadfronts are shown and described. 23-27 are described simply in the context of a curved deadfront article 2000 for ease of explanation, it should be understood that deadfront article 2000 may be any of the deadfront embodiments discussed herein. .

23 , in one or more embodiments, deadfront article 2000 includes a curved outer glass substrate 2010 having at least a first radius of curvature (R1) and, in various embodiments, a curved outer glass substrate 2010. The outer glass substrate 2010 is a sheet of composite curved glass material with at least one additional radius of curvature. In various embodiments, R1 ranges from about 60 mm to about 1500 mm.

The curved deadfront article 2000 includes a deadfront color layer 2020 (e.g., ink/pigment layer(s), as described above) located along the inner major surface of the curved outer glass substrate 2010. ) includes. Typically, deadfront color layers (2020) are printed, colored and shaped to provide wood-grain designs, leather-grain designs, fabric designs, brushed metal designs, graphic designs, solid colors and/or logos. However, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to these designs or patterns. The curved deadfront article 2000 may also include any of the additional layers 2030 (e.g., a high optical density layer, light guide layers, reflector layer, display module(s), display stack layer, light source, touch panel, etc.).

As discussed in more detail below, in various embodiments, the curved deadfront article 2000 comprising the glass substrate 2010 and the color layer 2020 is in a curved shape, as shown in FIG. 23 Can be cold-formed together. In some embodiments, a curved deadfront article 2000 comprising a glass substrate 2010, a color layer 2020, and an additional layer 2030 is cold-rolled together into a curved shape, such as shown in FIG. 23. can be formed. In other embodiments, the glass substrate 2010 may be formed into a curved shape, and then layers 2020 and 2030 are applied after forming the curve.

Referring to FIG. 24, the external glass substrate 2010 is shown before being formed into the curved shape shown in FIG. 24. In general, the articles and processes discussed herein provide high quality deadfront articles utilizing glass in sizes, shapes, compositions, strengths, etc. not previously available.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the external glass substrate 2010 includes a first major surface 2050 and a second major surface 2060 opposite the first major surface 2050. An edge surface or subsurface 2070 connects the first major surface 2050 and the second major surface 2060. The outer glass substrate 2010 has a thickness t that is substantially constant and is defined as the distance between the first major surface 2050 and the second major surface 2060. In some embodiments, thickness (t), as used herein, refers to the maximum thickness of the outer glass substrate 2010. The outer glass substrate 2010 includes a width (W) defined as the first maximum dimension of either the first or second major surface orthogonal to the thickness (t), and the outer glass substrate 2010 also has a thickness and and a length (L) defined as the second largest dimension of either the first or second surface orthogonal to both the widths. In other embodiments, the dimensions discussed herein are average dimensions.

In one or more embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 has a thickness t in the range of 0.05 mm to 2 mm. In various embodiments, the external glass substrate 2010 has a thickness t of less than or equal to about 1.5 mm. For example, the thickness may be about 0.1 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.15 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.2 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.3 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.35 mm. to about 1.5 mm, about 0.4 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.45 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.55 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.6 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.65 mm ㎜ to approx. 1.5 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 1.5 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.4 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.3 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.2 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1.1 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 1 .05 ㎜ , about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.95 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.9 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.85 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.8 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.75 mm. , approx. 0.1 mm to about 0.7 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.65 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.6 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.55 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm, about 0.1 mm to about 0.4 mm, or about 0.3 It may range from mm to about 0.7 mm.

In one or more embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 has a length between about 5 cm and about 250 cm, between about 10 cm and about 250 cm, between about 15 cm and about 250 cm, between about 20 cm and about 250 cm, and between about 25 cm and About 250 cm, about 30 cm to about 250 cm, about 35 cm to about 250 cm, about 40 cm to about 250 cm, about 45 cm to about 250 cm, about 50 cm to about 250 cm, about 55 cm to about 250 cm cm, about 60 cm to about 250 cm, about 65 cm to about 250 cm, about 70 cm to about 250 cm, about 75 cm to about 250 cm, about 80 cm to about 250 cm, about 85 cm to about 250 cm, About 90 cm to about 250 cm, about 95 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 120 cm to about 250 cm, about 130 cm to about 250 cm, about 14 0 cm to about 250 cm, about 150 cm to about 250 cm, about 5 cm to about 240 cm, about 5 cm to about 230 cm, about 5 cm to about 220 cm, about 5 cm to about 210 cm, about 5 cm to About 200 cm, about 5 cm to about 190 cm, about 5 cm to about 180 cm, about 5 cm to about 170 cm, about 5 cm to about 160 cm, about 5 cm to about 150 cm, about 5 cm to about 140 cm cm, from about 5 cm to about 130 cm, from about 5 cm to about 120 cm, from about 5 cm to about 110 cm, from about 5 cm to about 100 cm, from about 5 cm to about 90 cm, from about 5 cm to about 80 cm, or has a width (W) in the range of about 5 cm to about 75 cm.

In one or more embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 has a length between about 5 cm and about 250 cm, between about 10 cm and about 250 cm, between about 15 cm and about 250 cm, between about 20 cm and about 250 cm, and between about 25 cm and About 250 cm, about 30 cm to about 250 cm, about 35 cm to about 250 cm, about 40 cm to about 250 cm, about 45 cm to about 250 cm, about 50 cm to about 250 cm, about 55 cm to about 250 cm cm, about 60 cm to about 250 cm, about 65 cm to about 250 cm, about 70 cm to about 250 cm, about 75 cm to about 250 cm, about 80 cm to about 250 cm, about 85 cm to about 250 cm, About 90 cm to about 250 cm, about 95 cm to about 250 cm, about 100 cm to about 250 cm, about 110 cm to about 250 cm, about 120 cm to about 250 cm, about 130 cm to about 250 cm, about 14 0 cm to about 250 cm, about 150 cm to about 250 cm, about 5 cm to about 240 cm, about 5 cm to about 230 cm, about 5 cm to about 220 cm, about 5 cm to about 210 cm, about 5 cm to About 200 cm, about 5 cm to about 190 cm, about 5 cm to about 180 cm, about 5 cm to about 170 cm, about 5 cm to about 160 cm, about 5 cm to about 150 cm, about 5 cm to about 140 cm cm, from about 5 cm to about 130 cm, from about 5 cm to about 120 cm, from about 5 cm to about 110 cm, from about 5 cm to about 100 cm, from about 5 cm to about 90 cm, from about 5 cm to about 80 cm, or has a length (L) in the range of about 5 cm to about 75 cm.

As shown in Figure 23, the outer glass substrate 2010 is shaped into a curved shape with at least one radius of curvature, denoted R1. In various embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 may be shaped into a curved shape through any suitable process, including cold-forming and hot-forming.

In certain embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 is shaped into the curved shape shown in FIG. 23, either alone or after attachment of layers 2020 and 2030, through a cold-forming process. As used herein, the terms “cold-bent,” “cold-bend,” “cold-formed,” or “cold-formed” means cold-forming below the softening point of the glass substrate (as described herein). It refers to bending a glass substrate at temperature. A characteristic of the cold-formed glass substrate is an asymmetric surface compressive between the first major surface 2050 and the second major surface 2060. In some embodiments, in the cold-forming process or prior to being cold-formed, the compressive stress in each of the first major surface 2050 and the second major surface 2060 is substantially the same.

In some such embodiments where the outer glass substrate 2010 is not strengthened, the first major surface 2050 and second major surface 2060 do not exhibit significant compressive stress prior to cold-forming. In some such embodiments where the outer glass substrate 2010 is strengthened (as described herein), the first major surface 2050 and the second major surface 2060 are, prior to cold-forming, substantially identical to each other. It represents compressive stress. In one or more embodiments, after cold-forming (e.g., shown in Figure 23), the compressive stress on the second major surface 2060 (e.g., the concave surface after bending) increases (i.e., the second The compressive stress on the major surface 2050 is greater after cold-forming than before cold-forming).

Without being bound by theory, the cold-forming process increases the compressive stress of the glass substrate being shaped to compensate for the tensile stress imparted during bending and/or forming operations. In one or more embodiments, the cold-forming process induces compressive stresses in the second major surface 2060 while causing tensile stresses in the first major surface 2050 (e.g., a convex surface after bending). . The tensile stress experienced by the surface 2050 after bending results in a net decrease in the surface compressive stress, such that the compressive stress at the surface 2050 of the tempered glass sheet after bending is higher than the surface (2050) when the glass sheet is flat. 2050) is smaller than the compressive stress.

Moreover, when the tempered glass substrate is utilized for the external glass substrate 2010, the first major surface and the second major surface 2050, 2060 are already under compressive stress, so the first major surface 2050 is at risk of breakage. Without it, greater tensile stresses can be experienced during bending. This allows embodiments of the strengthened outer glass substrate 2010 to more accurately conform to curved surfaces (eg shaped to have smaller R1 values).

In various embodiments, the thickness of the outer glass substrate 2010 is adjusted to allow the outer glass substrate 2010 to be more flexible to achieve a desired radius of curvature. Additionally, the thinner outer glass substrate 2010 can be more easily deformed, which can potentially compensate for shape mismatches and gaps that may be created by the shape of the support or frame (as discussed below). . In one or more embodiments, the thin, strengthened outer glass substrate 2010 exhibits greater flexibility, particularly during cold-forming. The greater flexibility of the glass substrates discussed herein may enable consistent bend formation without heating.

In various embodiments, the outer glass substrate 2010 (and consequently the deadfront article 2000) can have a composite curve that includes a major radius and a cross curvature. The complex curved cold-formed outer glass substrate 2010 can have distinct radii of curvature in two independent directions. Accordingly, according to one or more embodiments, the complex curved cold-formed outer glass substrate 2010 may be characterized as having a “cross curvature,” wherein the cold-formed outer glass substrate 2010: It is curved along an axis parallel to a given dimension (i.e., the first axis) and also along an axis orthogonal to the same dimension (i.e., the second axis). The curvature of the cold-formed outer glass substrate 2010 can be even more complex when a significant minimum radius is combined with significant intersecting curvature, and/or depth of bend.

25, a display assembly 2100 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In the embodiment shown, display assembly 2100 includes a frame 2110 that supports (directly or indirectly) both a light source, shown as display module 2120, and a deadfront article 2000. As shown in FIG. 25, the deadfront article 2000 and the display module 2120 are connected to the frame 2110, and the display module 2120 allows the user to display the display module 2120 through the deadfront article 2000. ) is positioned so that the light, image, etc. generated by it can be viewed. In various embodiments, frame 2110 may be formed from a variety of materials, such as plastics (PC/ABS, etc.), metals (Al-alloy, Mg-alloy, Fe-alloy, etc.). Various processes, such as casting, machining, stamping, injection molding, etc., may be utilized to form the curved shape of frame 2110. Although FIG. 25 shows a light source in the form of a display module, display assembly 2100 can be used to create graphics, icons, images, displays, etc. through any of the deadfront embodiments discussed herein. It should be understood that it may include any one of the light sources. Moreover, although frame 2110 is shown as a frame associated with a display assembly, frame 2110 may be any support or framing article associated with a vehicle interior system.

In various embodiments, the systems and methods described herein enable the deadfront article 2000 to be formed to conform to a wide variety of curved shapes that the frame 2110 can have. As shown in FIG. 25 , frame 2110 has a support surface 2130 that has a curved shape, and deadfront article 2000 is shaped to match the curved shape of support surface 2130. As can be appreciated, deadfront structure 2000 can be shaped into a wide variety of shapes to match the desired frame shape of display assembly 2100, which ultimately can be used in vehicle interior systems, as discussed herein. It can be shaped to fit the shape of a part of .

In one or more embodiments, the deadfront structure 2000 (and particularly the outer glass substrate 2010) is shaped to have a first radius of curvature (R1) of at least about 60 mm. For example, R1 is about 60 mm to about 1500 mm, about 70 mm to about 1500 mm, about 80 mm to about 1500 mm, about 90 mm to about 1500 mm, about 100 mm to about 1500 mm, about 120 mm. to about 1500 mm, about 140 mm to about 1500 mm, about 150 mm to about 1500 mm, about 160 mm to about 1500 mm, about 180 mm to about 1500 mm, about 200 mm to about 1500 mm, about 220 mm ㎜ to approx. 1500 mm, about 240 mm to about 1500 mm, about 250 mm to about 1500 mm, about 260 mm to about 1500 mm, about 270 mm to about 1500 mm, about 280 mm to about 1500 mm, about 290 mm ㎜ to about 1500 ㎜ , about 300 mm to about 1500 mm, about 350 mm to about 1500 mm, about 400 mm to about 1500 mm, about 450 mm to about 1500 mm, about 500 mm to about 1500 mm, about 550 mm to about 150 mm. 0 mm, approx. 600 mm to about 1500 mm, about 650 mm to about 1500 mm, about 700 mm to about 1500 mm, about 750 mm to about 1500 mm, about 800 mm to about 1500 mm, about 900 mm to about 1500 ㎜, about 9500 ㎜ to about 1500 mm, about 1000 mm to about 1500 mm, about 1250 mm to about 1500 mm, about 60 mm to about 1400 mm, about 60 mm to about 1300 mm, about 60 mm to about 1200 mm, about 60 ㎜ to approx. 1100 mm, about 60 mm to about 1000 mm, about 60 mm to about 950 mm, about 60 mm to about 900 mm, about 60 mm to about 850 mm, about 60 mm to about 800 mm, about 60 mm to about 750 mm ㎜ , about 60 mm to about 700 mm, about 60 mm to about 650 mm, about 60 mm to about 600 mm, about 60 mm to about 550 mm, about 60 mm to about 500 mm, about 60 mm to about 450 mm, about It may range from 60 mm to about 400 mm, from about 60 mm to about 350 mm, from about 60 mm to about 300 mm, or from about 60 mm to about 250 mm.

In one or more embodiments, support surface 2130 has a second radius of curvature of at least about 60 mm. For example, the second radius of curvature of support surface 2130 may be between about 60 mm and about 1500 mm, between about 70 mm and about 1500 mm, between about 80 mm and about 1500 mm, between about 90 mm and about 1500 mm, and between about 100 mm. mm to about 1500 mm, about 120 mm to about 1500 mm, about 140 mm to about 1500 mm, about 150 mm to about 1500 mm, about 160 mm to about 1500 mm, about 180 mm to about 1500 mm, about From 200 mm About 1500 mm, about 220 mm to about 1500 mm, about 240 mm to about 1500 mm, about 250 mm to about 1500 mm, about 260 mm to about 1500 mm, about 270 mm to about 1500 mm, about 280 ㎜ to about 1500 mm, about 290 mm to about 1500 mm, about 300 mm to about 1500 mm, about 350 mm to about 1500 mm, about 400 mm to about 1500 mm, about 450 mm to about 1500 mm, about 500 mm to about 1500㎜, About 550 mm to about 1500 mm, about 600 mm to about 1500 mm, about 650 mm to about 1500 mm, about 700 mm to about 1500 mm, about 750 mm to about 1500 mm, about 800 mm to about 1500 ㎜, about 900 mm to about 1500 mm, about 9500 mm to about 1500 mm, about 1000 mm to about 1500 mm, about 1250 mm to about 1500 mm, about 60 mm to about 1400 mm, about 60 mm to about 1300 mm, About 60 mm 1200 mm, about 60 mm to about 1100 mm, about 60 mm to about 1000 mm, about 60 mm to about 950 mm, about 60 mm to about 900 mm, about 60 mm to about 850 mm, about 60 mm to about 800 mm, about 60 mm to about 750 mm, about 60 mm to about 700 mm, about 60 mm to about 650 mm, about 60 mm to about 600 mm, about 60 mm to about 550 mm, about 60 mm to about 500 mm, It may range from about 60 mm to about 450 mm, from about 60 mm to about 400 mm, from about 60 mm to about 350 mm, from about 60 mm to about 300 mm, or from about 60 mm to about 250 mm.

In one or more embodiments, deadfront structure 2000 is within 10% (e.g., less than about 10%, less than about 9%, less than about 8%) of the second radius of curvature of support surface 2130 of frame 2110. % or less, about 7% or less, about 6% or less, or about 5% or less). For example, support surface 2130 of frame 2110 exhibits a radius of curvature of 1000 mm, and deadfront article 2000 is cold-formed to have a radius of curvature in the range of about 900 mm to about 1100 mm. .

In one or more embodiments, the first major surface 2050 and/or second major surface 2060 of the glass substrate 2010 comprises a functional coating layer as described herein. The functional coating layer may cover at least a portion of the first main surface 2050 and/or the second main surface 2060. Representative functional coatings include at least one of a glare reduction coating or surface, an anti-glare coating or surface, a scratch resistant coating, an anti-reflective coating, a half-mirror coating, or an easy-to-clean coating.

26, a method 2200 for forming a display assembly comprising a cold-formed deadfront article, such as deadfront article 2000, is shown. At step 2210, the method includes bending a deadfront article, such as deadfront article 2000, with the curved surface of the support. Generally, the support may be a frame of the display, such as frame 2110 that defines the perimeter and curved shape of the vehicle display. Generally, the frame includes a curved support surface, and one of the major surfaces 2050 and 2060 of the deadfront article 2000 is positioned to contact the curved support surface.

At step 2220, the method includes securing the curved deadfront article to a support, thereby bending the deadfront article to conform (or conform) to the curved surface of the support. In this way, curved deadfront article 2000, as shown in FIG. 23, is formed from a generally flat deadfront article to a curved deadfront article. In this arrangement, bending the flat deadfront article forms a curved shape on the major surface facing the support, while also causing a corresponding (but complementary) curve to be formed on the major surface opposite the frame. By bending the deadfront article directly on the curved frame, the need for a separate curved die or mold (commonly required in other glass bending processes) can be eliminated. Moreover, by shaping the deadfront directly into the curved frame, a wide range of curved radii can be achieved in a low complexity manufacturing process.

In some embodiments, the force applied in steps 2210 and/or 2220 may be air pressure applied through a vacuum fixture. In some other embodiments, the air pressure differential is created by applying a vacuum to an airtight enclosure surrounding the frame and deadfront article. In certain embodiments, the airtight enclosure is a flexible polymer shell, such as a plastic bag or pouch. In other embodiments, the air pressure differential is created by generating increased air pressure around the deadfront article and frame with an overpressure device, such as an autoclave. Air pressure provides consistent and highly uniform bending force (compared to contact-based bending methods) which also leads to a robust manufacturing process. In various embodiments, the atmospheric pressure difference is between 0.5 and 1.5 atmospheres (atm), specifically between 0.7 and 1.1 atm, and more specifically between 0.8 and 1 atm.

In step 2230, the temperature of the deadfront article is maintained below the glass transition temperature of the material of the outer glass layer during steps 2210 and 2220. As such, method 2200 is a cold-forming or cold-bending process. In certain embodiments, the temperature of the deadfront article is maintained below 500°C, 400°C, 300°C, 200°C, or 100°C. In certain embodiments, the deadfront article is maintained below room temperature during bending. In certain embodiments, the deadfront article is not actively heated via a heating element, furnace, oven, etc. during bending, such as when hot-forming glass into a curved shape.

As noted above, in addition to providing process advantages such as eliminating expensive and/or slow heating steps, the cold-forming processes discussed herein are believed to be superior to those achievable through hot-forming processes. It is believed that this results in curved deadfront articles having a variety of properties. For example, for at least some glass materials, heating during the hot-forming process reduces the optical properties of the curved glass substrate, so curved glass-based deadfronts formed utilizing the cold-bending processes/systems discussed herein The article provides both a curved glass shape along with improved optical properties not believed to be achievable with a hot-bending process.

Moreover, many of the materials used in various coatings and layers (e.g., easy-to-clean coatings, anti-reflective coatings, etc.) are produced through deposition processes, such as sputtering processes, which are not typically suitable for coatings on curved surfaces. Applies. Additionally, many coating materials, such as deadfront ink/pigment materials, also cannot withstand the high temperatures associated with hot-bending processes. Accordingly, in certain embodiments discussed herein, layer 2020 is applied to outer glass substrate 2010 prior to cold-bending. Accordingly, after one or more coating materials have been applied to the glass, the processes and systems discussed herein enable bending of the glass, in contrast to conventional hot-forming processes.

In step 2220, the curved deadfront article is glued or attached to the curved support. In various embodiments, attachment between the curved deadfront article and the curved support can be achieved through an adhesive material. Such adhesives may include any suitable optically clear adhesive for bonding the deadfront article in place to the display assembly (e.g., the frame of the display). In one embodiment, the adhesive may include an optically clear adhesive available from 3M Corporation under the trade designation 8215. The thickness of the adhesive may range from about 200 μm to about 500 μm.

Adhesive materials can be applied in a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the adhesive is applied using an applicator gun and made uniform using a roller or draw down die. In various embodiments, the adhesives discussed herein are structural adhesives. In certain embodiments, the structural adhesive is from one or more categories: (a) reinforced epoxy (Masterbond EP21TDCHT-LO, 3M 3M Scotch Weld Epoxy DP460 Off-white); (b) flexible epoxy (Masterbond EP21TDC-2LO, 3M Scotch Weld Epoxy 2216 B/A Gray); (c) Acrylic (LORD Adhesive 410/Accelerator 19 w/ LORD AP 134 primer, LORD Adhesive 852/LORD Accelerator 25GB, Loctite HF8000, Loctite AA4800); (d) Urethane (3M Scotch Weld Urethane DP640 Brown); and (e) silicone (Dow Corning 995). In some cases, structural adhesives available in sheet format (such as B-staged epoxy adhesives) may be utilized. Furthermore, pressure sensitive structural adhesives, such as 3M VHB tape, can be utilized. In this embodiment, utilizing a pressure sensitive adhesive, the curved deadfront article can be joined to the frame without the need for a curing step.

In one or more embodiments, the method includes step 2240, where the curved deadfront is secured to the display. In one or more embodiments, the method may include securing a display to a deadfront article before step 2210 and bending both the display and the deadfront article at step 2210. In one or more embodiments, the method includes placing or assembling a curved deadfront and display in a vehicle interior system (100, 200, 300).

27, a method 2300 of forming a display utilizing a curved deadfront article is shown and described. In some embodiments, the substrate of the deadfront article (e.g., outer glass layer 2010) is formed into a curved shape in step 2310. The shaping in step 2310 may be cold-forming or hot-forming. In step 2320, deadfront ink/pigment layer(s) (e.g., layer 2020) are applied to the substrate after shaping to provide a curved deadfront article. Next, in step 2330, the curved deadfront article is attached to a frame, such as frame 2110 of display assembly 2100, or another frame that may be associated with a vehicle interior system.

substrate material

The various substrates of the deadfront articles discussed herein can be formed from any transparent material, such as polymers (e.g., PMMA, polycarbonate, and the like) or glass. Suitable glass compositions include soda lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, boroaluminosilicate glass, alkali-containing aluminosilicate glass, alkali-containing borosilicate glass, and alkali-containing boroaluminosilicate glass. do.

In some embodiments, the substrates discussed herein may be formed from “glass-ceramic” materials produced through controlled crystallization of glass. In this embodiment, the glass-ceramic has a crystallinity of about 30% to about 90%. Non-limiting examples of glass ceramic systems that can be used include Li ₂ O Х Al ₂ O ₃ Х nSiO ₂ (i.e., LAS system), MgO Х Al ₂ O ₃ Х nSiO ₂ (i.e., MAS system), and ZnO. It contains Х Al ₂ O ₃ Х nSiO ₂ (i.e. ZAS system).

Unless otherwise specified, the glass compositions disclosed herein are reported in mole percent (mol%) as analyzed on an oxide basis.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition has a molar content of about 66 mol% to about 80 mol%, about 67 mol% to about 80 mol%, about 68 mol% to about 80 mol%, about 69 mol% to about 80 mol%, About 70 mol% to about 80 mol%, about 72 mol% to about 80 mol%, about 65 mol% to about 78 mol%, about 65 mol% to about 76 mol%, about 65 mol% to about 75 mol%, SiO ₂ in an amount ranging from about 65 mol% to about 74 mol%, from about 65 mol% to about 72 mol%, or from about 65 mol% to about 70 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. can do.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes Al ₂ O ₃ in an amount greater than about 4 mol%, or greater than about 5 mol%. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises greater than about 7 mol% to about 15 mol%, greater than about 7 mol% to about 14 mol%, about 7 mol% to about 13 mol%, about 4 mol% to about 12 mol%. %, about 7 mol% to about 11 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 15 mol%, 9 mol% to about 15 mol%, about 9 mol% to about 15 mol%, about 10 mol% to about 15 mol% , _from about 11 mol% to about 15 mol%, or from about 12 mol% _to about 15 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. In one or more embodiments, the upper limit of Al ₂ O ₃ may be about 14 mol%, 14.2 mol%, 14.4 mol%, 14.6 mol%, or 14.8 mol%.

In one or more embodiments, the glass layer(s) are described herein as an aluminosilicate glass article or comprising an aluminosilicate glass composition. In this embodiment, the glass composition or article formed therefrom includes SiO ₂ and Al ₂ O ₃ and is not soda lime silicate glass. In this regard, the glass composition or article formed therefrom comprises Al ₂ O ₃ in an amount of at least about 2 mol%, at least 2.25 mol%, at least 2.5 mol%, at least about 2.75 mol%, at least about 3 mol%.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes B ₂ O ₃ (eg, at least about 0.01 mol%). In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises about 0 mol% to about 5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 3 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 2 mol%, About 0 mol% to about 1 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 0.5 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 5 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 3 mol%, B ₂ O ₃ in amounts ranging from about 0.1 mol% to about 2 mol%, from about 0.1 mol% to about 1 mol%, from about 0.1 mol% to about 0.5 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. Includes. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition is substantially free of B ₂ O ₃ .

As used herein, with respect to a component of a composition, the phrase "substantially free" means that the component is not actively or intentionally added to the composition during initial batching, but contains impurities in amounts less than about 0.001 mol%. It means that it can exist.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition optionally includes P ₂ O ₅ (eg, at least about 0.01 mol%). In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes a non-zero amount of P ₂ O ₅ of up to 2 mol%, up to 1.5 mol%, up to 1 mol%, or up to 0.5 mol%. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition is substantially free of P ₂ O ₅ .

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises at least about 8 mol%, at least about 10 mol%, or at least about 12 mol% (Li ₂ O, Na ₂ O, K ₂ O, Rb ₂ O, and Cs ₂ O and It may include the total amount of R ₂ O, which is the total amount of the same alkali metal oxide. In some embodiments, the glass composition has about 8 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 18 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 16 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 14 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 12 mol%, about 9 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 10 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 11 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 12 mol% to about 20 mol%, about ranges from 13 mol% to about 20 mol%, from _about 10 mol% to about 14 mol%, or from 11 mol% to about 13 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges there between. . In one or more embodiments, the glass composition can be substantially free of Rb ₂ O, Cs ₂ O, or both Rb ₂ O and Cs ₂ O. In one or more embodiments, R ₂ O may include only the total amount of Li ₂ O, Na ₂ O and K ₂ O. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition may include at least one alkali metal oxide selected from Li ₂ O, Na ₂ O, and K ₂ O, wherein the alkali metal oxide is present in an amount of about 8 mol% or more. do.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes Na ₂ O in an amount of at least about 8 mol%, at least about 10 mol%, or at least about 12 mol%. In one or more embodiments, the composition comprises about 8 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 18 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 16 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 14 mol%, about 8 mol% to about 12 mol%, about 9 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 10 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 11 mol% to about 20 mol%, about 12 mol% to about 20 mol%, about Na ₂ O in an amount ranging from 13 mol% to about 20 mol%, from about 10 mol% to about 14 mol%, or from 11 mol% to about 16 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges there between. .

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises less than about 4 mol% K ₂ O, less than about 3 mol% K ₂ O, or less than about 1 mol% K ₂ O. In some instances, the glass composition may have about 0 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 3.5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 3 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 2.5 mol%, about 0 mol%. mol% to about 2 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 1.5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 1 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 0.5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 0.2 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 0.1 mol%, about 0.5 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 0.5 mol% to about 3.5 mol%, about 0.5 mol% to about 3 mol%, about 0.5 mol% to about 2.5 mol%, about 0.5 mol%. mol% to about 2 mol%, _about 0.5 mol% to about 1.5 mol%, or about 0.5 mol% to about 1 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. You can. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition can be substantially free of K ₂ O.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition is substantially free of Li ₂ O. In one or more embodiments, the amount of Na ₂ O in the composition may exceed the amount of Li ₂ O. In some cases, the amount of Na ₂ O may exceed the combined amount of Li ₂ O and K ₂ O. In one or more optional embodiments, the amount of Li ₂ O in the composition may exceed the amount of Na ₂ O or the combined amount of Na ₂ O and K ₂ O.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition may include a total amount of RO (which is the total amount of alkaline earth metal oxides such as CaO, MgO, BaO, ZnO, and SrO) in the range of about 0 mol% to about 2 mol%. In some embodiments, the glass composition includes a non-zero amount of RO, up to about 2 mol%. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition has about 0 mol% to about 1.8 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 1.6 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 1.5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 1.4 mol%, From about 0 mol% to about 1.2 mol%, from about 0 mol% to about 1 mol%, from about 0 mol% to about 0.8 mol%, from about 0 mol% to about 0.5 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges there between. Includes RO in the amount of

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes CaO in an amount of less than about 1 mol%, less than about 0.8 mol%, or less than about 0.5 mol%. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition is substantially free of CaO.

In some embodiments, the glass composition has about 0 mol% to about 7 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 6 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 5 mol%, about 0 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 7 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 6 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 5 mol%, about 0.1 mol% to about 4 mol%, about 1 mol% to about 7 mol%, about MgO in amounts from 2 mol% to about 6 mol%, or from about 3 mol% to about 6 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges there between.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises ZrO ₂ in an amount of less than about 0.2 mol%, less than about 0.18 mol%, less than about 0.16 mol%, less than about 0.15 mol%, less than about 0.14 mol%, less than about 0.12 mol%. Includes. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition has about 0.01 mol% to about 0.2 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.18 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.16 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.15 mol%, ZrO ₂ in an amount ranging from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.14 mol%, from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.12 mol%, or from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.10 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. do.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises SnO ₂ in an amount of about 0.2 mol% or less, about 0.18 mol% or less, about 0.16 mol% or less, about 0.15 mol% or less, about 0.14 mol% or less, about 0.12 mol% or less. Includes. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition has about 0.01 mol% to about 0.2 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.18 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.16 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.15 mol%, SnO ₂ in an amount ranging from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.14 mol%, from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.12 mol%, or from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.10 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. do.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition may include an oxide that imparts color or tint to the glass article. In some embodiments, the glass composition includes an oxide that prevents discoloration of the glass article when the glass article is exposed to ultraviolet light. Examples of such oxides include, but are not limited to, oxides of Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Ce, W, and Mo.

In one or more embodiments, the glass composition includes Fe, expressed as Fe ₂ O ₃ , wherein Fe is present in an amount of about 1 mol% or less. In some embodiments, the glass composition is substantially free of Fe. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition comprises Fe ₂ in an amount of less than about 0.2 mol%, less than about 0.18 mol%, less than about 0.16 mol%, less than about 0.15 mol%, less than about 0.14 mol%, less than about 0.12 mol%. Contains O ₃ . In one or more embodiments, the glass composition has about 0.01 mol% to about 0.2 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.18 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.16 mol%, about 0.01 mol% to about 0.15 mol%, Fe ₂ O ₃ in an amount ranging from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.14 mol%, from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.12 mol%, or from about 0.01 mol% to about 0.10 mol%, and all ranges and sub-ranges in between. Includes.

When the glass composition includes TiO ₂ , TiO ₂ may be present in an amount of about 5 mol% or less, about 2.5 mol% or less, about 2 mol% or less, or about 1 mol% or less. In one or more embodiments, the glass composition can be substantially free of TiO ₂ .

Representative glass compositions include SiO ₂ in an amount ranging from about 65 mol% to about 75 mol%, Al ₂ O ₃ in an amount ranging from about 8 mol% to about 14 mol%, and SiO 2 in an amount ranging from about 8 mol% to about 14 mol%. Na ₂ O in an amount ranging from about 0 mol.% to about 0.2 mol.%, K ₂ O in an amount ranging from about 0 mol.% to about 0.2 mol.%, and MgO in an amount ranging from about 1.5 mol.% to about 6 mol.%. Optionally, SnO ₂ may be included in amounts separately disclosed herein.

reinforced substrate

In one or more embodiments, the substrate comprises a glass material (such as outer glass substrate 2010 or another glass substrate) of any of the deadfront article embodiments discussed herein. In one or more embodiments, these glass substrates may be strengthened. In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate can be strengthened to include a compressive stress extending from the surface to the depth of compression (DOC). The compressive stress region is balanced by a central portion representing tensile stress. In DOC, the stress crosses from positive (compressive) to negative (tensile) stress.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used in the deadfront articles discussed herein is mechanically strengthened by exploiting the mismatch in coefficient of thermal expansion between portions of the glass to create a compressive stress region and a central region representing tensile stress. It can be. In some embodiments, a glass substrate can be thermally strengthened by heating the glass to a temperature above the glass transition point and then rapidly quenching.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrates used in the deadfront articles discussed herein can be chemically strengthened by ion exchange. In an ion exchange process, ions on or near the surface of a glass substrate are replaced, or exchanged, with larger ions having the same valence or oxidation state. In embodiments where the glass substrate comprises an alkali aluminosilicate glass or soda lime silicate glass, the ions and larger ions in the surface layer of the article are monovalent alkali metal cations, such as Li ⁺ , Na ⁺ , K ⁺ , Rb ⁺ , and Cs ⁺ . Optionally, the monovalent cations in the surface layer may be replaced by monovalent cations other than alkali metal cations, such as Ag ⁺ or the like. In this embodiment, monovalent ions (or cations) exchanged with the glass substrate generate stress.

The ion exchange process is typically performed by immersing the glass substrate in a molten salt bath (or two or more molten salt baths) containing larger ions to be exchanged for smaller ions in the glass substrate. It should be noted that aqueous salt baths may also be utilized. Additionally, the composition of the bath(s) may include more than one type of larger ion (e.g., Na+ and K+) or a single larger ion. Including, but not limited to, bath composition and temperature, immersion time, number of immersions of the glass substrate in the salt bath (or baths), use of multiple salt baths, additional steps such as annealing, washing, and the like. It is understood by those skilled in the art that the parameters for an ion exchange process are generally determined by the composition of the glass substrate (including the structure of the substrate and any crystalline phases present) and the desired DOC and CS of the glass substrate resulting from strengthening. It will be.

Representative melt bath compositions may include nitrates, sulfates, and chlorides of larger alkali metal ions. Common nitrates include KNO ₃ , NaNO ₃ , LiNO ₃ , NaSO ₄ and combinations thereof. The temperature of the molten salt bath typically ranges from about 380° C. to about 450° C., and the immersion time ranges from about 15 minutes to about 100 hours depending on the glass substrate thickness, bath temperature, and glass (or monovalent ion) diffusivity. am. However, temperatures and soak times other than those described above may also be used.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used in the deadfront article is 100% NaNO ₃ , 100% KNO ₃ , with a temperature of about 370° C. to about 480° C. Alternatively, it may be immersed in a molten salt bath of a combination of NaNO ₃ and KNO ₃ . In some embodiments, the glass substrate of the deadfront article can be immersed in a molten mixed salt bath comprising about 5% to about 90% KNO ₃ and about 10% to about 95% NaNO ₃ . In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate may be immersed in a first bath and then immersed in a second bath. The first and second baths may have different compositions and/or temperatures. The soaking time in the first and second baths may vary. For example, the immersion in the first bath may be longer than the immersion in the second bath.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used to form the deadfront article is NaNO ₃ and KNO ₃ (e.g., 49 %/51%, 50%/50%, 51%/49%) for less than about 5 hours, or even less than about 4 hours.

Ion exchange conditions can be adjusted to increase the slope or provide “spikes” in the stress profile at or near the surface of the resulting glass substrate. Spikes can result in larger surface CS values. Such spikes can be achieved by a single bath or multiple baths, with single or mixed compositions, due to the unique properties of the glass compositions used in the glass substrates of the deadfront articles described herein.

In one or more embodiments where one or more monovalent ions are exchanged into the glass substrate used in the deadfront article, different monovalent ions may be exchanged at different depths within the glass substrate (and have different sizes within the glass substrate at different depths). of stress). The resulting relative depth of the stress-generating ions can be determined and lead to different characteristics of the stress profile.

CS can be obtained by means known in the art, such as Orihara Industrial Co., Ltd. It is measured by a surface stress meter (FSM) using a commercially available instrument such as FSM-6000 manufactured by (Japan). Surface stress measurements rely on an accurate measurement of the stress optical coefficient (SOC), which is related to the birefringence of the glass. SOC, in turn, is fully described in ASTM standard C770-98 (2013), entitled “Standard Test Method for Measurement of Glass Stress-Optical Coefficient”, by methods known in the art, the entire contents of which Measurements are made by the fiber and four-point bend methods, and the bulk cylinder method, which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, CS may be the “maximum compressive stress,” which is the highest compressive stress value measured within the compressive stress layer. In some embodiments, the maximum compressive stress is located at the surface of the glass substrate. In other embodiments, the maximum compressive stress may occur at a depth below the surface, giving the appearance of a “buried peak” in the compression profile.

DOC can be measured by FSM or scattered light polarizer (SCALP) (e.g. SCALP-04 scattered light polarizer available from Glasstress Ltd., Tallinn Estonia), depending on the intensification method and conditions. If the glass substrate has been chemically strengthened by an ion exchange treatment, FSM or SCALP can be used depending on which ions are exchanged into the glass substrate. When stress is generated in a glass substrate by exchanging potassium ions with the glass substrate, FSM is used to measure DOC. When stress is generated by exchanging sodium ions into a glass substrate, SCALP is used to measure DOC. When stress is generated in a glass substrate by exchanging both potassium and sodium ions into the glass, DOC is measured by SCALP, which indicates that the depth of exchange of sodium represents DOC and the depth of exchange of potassium ions changes in the magnitude of the compressive stress ( However, it is believed to represent a change in stress from compression to tension; The exchange depth of potassium ions in these glass substrates is measured by FSM. Central tension, or CT, is the maximum tensile stress and is measured by SCALP.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used to form the deadfront article may be strengthened to exhibit a DOC stated as a fraction of the thickness (t) of the glass substrate (as described herein). For example, in one or more embodiments, the DOC is at least about 0.05 t, at least about 0.1 t, at least about 0.11 t, at least about 0.12 t, at least about 0.13 t, at least about 0.14 t, at least about 0.15 t, at least about 0.16 t. t or more, about 0.17 tons or more, about 0.18 tons or more, about 0.19 tons or more, about 0.2 tons or more, or about 0.21 tons or more. In some embodiments, the DOC is about 0.08 t to about 0.25 t, about 0.09 t to about 0.25 t, about 0.18 t to about 0.25 t, about 0.11 t to about 0.25 t, about 0.12 t to about 0.25 t, about 0.13 t. t to about 0.25t, about 0.14t to about 0.25t, about 0.15t to about 0.25t, about 0.08t to about 0.24t, about 0.08t to about 0.23t, about 0.08t to about 0.22t, about 0.08t to About 0.21t, about 0.08t to about 0.2t, about 0.08t to about 0.19t, about 0.08t to about 0.18t, about 0.08t to about 0.17t, about 0.08t to about 0.16t, or about 0.08t to about It may be in the range of 0.15t. In some cases, the DOC may be about 20 μm or less. In one or more embodiments, the DOC is greater than or equal to about 40 μm (e.g., from about 40 μm to about 300 μm, from about 50 μm to about 300 μm, from about 60 μm to about 300 μm, from about 70 μm to about 300 μm, About 80 μm to about 300 μm, about 90 μm to about 300 μm, about 100 μm to about 300 μm, about 110 μm to about 300 μm, about 120 μm to about 300 μm, about 140 μm to about 300 μm, about 15 0 ㎛ to about 300 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to about 290 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to about 280 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to about 260 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to about 250 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to about 240 ㎛, about 40 ㎛ to About 230 μm, about 40 μm to about 220 μm, about 40 μm to about 210 μm, about 40 μm to about 200 μm, about 40 μm to about 180 μm, about 40 μm to about 160 μm, about 40 μm to about 150 μm μm, from about 40 μm to about 140 μm, from about 40 μm to about 130 μm, from about 40 μm to about 120 μm, from about 40 μm to about 110 μm, or from about 40 μm to about 100 μm).

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used to form the deadfront article has a temperature of at least about 200 MPa, at least 300 MPa, at least 400 MPa, at least about 500 MPa, at least about 600 MPa, at least about 700 MPa, at least about 800 MPa. , may have a CS (that can be found at the surface or depth within the glass article) of at least about 900 MPa, at least about 930 MPa, at least about 1000 MPa, or at least about 1050 MPa.

In one or more embodiments, the glass substrate used to form the deadfront article has a temperature of at least about 20 MPa, at least about 30 MPa, at least about 40 MPa, at least about 45 MPa, at least about 50 MPa, at least about 60 MPa, at least about 70 MPa. It may have a maximum tensile stress or central tension (CT) of greater than or equal to MPa, greater than or equal to about 75 MPa, greater than or equal to about 80 MPa, or greater than or equal to about 85 MPa. In some embodiments, the maximum tensile stress or central tension (CT) can range from about 40 MPa to about 100 MPa.

tactile elements

37-40 illustrate a substrate 700 that includes one or more tactile elements. The substrate 700 has a first surface 702, a second surface 704 opposite the first surface 702, and at least one edge surface extending between the first and second surfaces 702, 704. Includes (706). An article comprising a substrate 700 (e.g., deadfront article 400) has an outer surface (e.g., outer surface 480) defined by the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. It can be included. Accordingly, a user of the article can see and touch the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 when interacting with the article.

Substrate 700 includes at least one visual element 710-1 disposed on a second surface 704 of substrate 700 such that the at least one visual element is visible through its first surface 702. 710-2). Additionally and/or alternatively, at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 is positioned within the substrate 700 using known techniques (e.g., using colored glass, etc.). can be placed. Visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 may be or include one or more graphics visible through first surface 702. In some embodiments, one or more graphics may include one or more icons.

In some embodiments, at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 may be defined in whole or in part by an opaque layer (e.g., opaque layer 510). In some embodiments, the opaque layer may display backlit icons and/or other graphics (e.g., graphics 410 and/or power button 420 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, icon 430 shown in FIG. 5, or FIG. 41 The graphic shown in 820) may be provided to indicate the outline. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the opaque layer has an interruption in the layer defining visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2. In these embodiments, opaque layer 510 may be a masking layer defining visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2.

Visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 may include (i) one or more zones of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, ( v) one or more visual portions arranged in at least one of: (vi) one or more images, (vi) one or more graphics, and (vi) one or more combinations thereof. As just an example, the first visual element 710-1 may be a circle formed through color, line, pattern, shading, masking, design, etc., and the second visual element 710-2 may be a circle formed through color, line, It can be a triangle formed through pattern, shading, masking, design, etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many specific artistic elements included within visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 and are not limited to the examples illustrated.

In some embodiments, the visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 are disposed on the second surface 704 of the article 700 to form an interior surface of the article (e.g., a deadfront article (e.g., a deadfront article) 400) may serve as the inner surface 490). Accordingly, visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 may be viewed by a user through first surface 702 of substrate 700, while visual element(s) 710-1, 710 -2) is protected from wear or damage through placement on the second surface 704 of the substrate 700. As mentioned above, additional and/or optional embodiments may include at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 disposed within the substrate 700.

As illustrated in Figure 37, substrate 700 includes at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2. As described herein, the combination of at least one visual element (710-1, 710-2) and at least one tactile element (712-1, 712-2) enhances the feel and/or appearance of the article. can be combined in any way. For example, the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 may enhance the feel of the surface of the article or the feel of the article in the user's hands. In some embodiments, the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 also provide visual element(s) 710- compared to an article without the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2. 1, 710-2) can operate in a visually enhancing manner. For example, a significantly visually stimulating (depth and/or three-dimensional) effect may be achieved by placing visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 on the second surface 704 of the substrate 700. and providing tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 in a complementary manner on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. A similar effect can be achieved for visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 disposed within substrate 700. In this regard, the complementary nature of providing the at least one tactile element (712-1, 712-2) includes the color(s) of the at least one visual element (710-1, 710-2), Providing one or more portions of roughness and/or small surface elements to the surface that complement line(s), pattern(s), design(s), graphics, and/or image(s), etc. .

The surface roughnesses discussed herein include, for example, R a surface roughnesses of about 10 nm to about 80 nm for relatively smooth surface roughnesses (including subranges), R _a surface roughnesses (including subranges) R _a surface roughness of about 80 nm to about 300 nm for rough, and R _a surface roughness greater than about 300 nm for relatively rough surface roughness. For example, a relatively smooth surface roughness can be defined by a R _a surface roughness of 10 nm, 20 nm, 30 nm, 40 nm, 50 nm, 60 nm, 70 nm, or 80 nm, or any two of these values. It may have a surface roughness R _a within the range of the endpoint. As another example, a relatively moderate surface roughness may include _{an R a} surface roughness of 80 nm, 100 nm, 125 nm, 150 nm, 175 nm, 200 nm, 225 nm, 250 nm, 275 nm, or 300 nm, or may have a R _a surface roughness in a range with any two of these values as endpoints. The height difference characteristics of small surface elements discussed herein can be implemented through relatively small elements extending away from the surface of the substrate, for example, from about 10 nm to about 10 nm for relatively smooth surface roughness. It can be quantified as having a height of 80 nm, between about 80 nm and about 300 nm for relatively moderate surface roughness, and greater than about 300 nm for relatively coarse surface roughness.

Surface roughness (R _a ) is defined as the arithmetic mean of the difference between the local surface height and the average surface height, and can be written by equation 1:

[Equation 1]

where y _i is the local surface height relative to the average surface height, where the surface roughness (R _a ) is measured and averaged in at least three sample areas (n) of about 100 μm x 100 μm. Surface roughness (R _a ) can be measured using a surface profilometer available from Zygo Corp.

The above-described provision of providing at least one tactile element (712-1, 712-2) in a complementary manner to at least one visual element (710-1, 710-2) includes at least one visual element (710-2). 1, 710-2) a surface roughness on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 that substantially matches (e.g., matches) the corresponding lines, shapes, patterns, graphics, colors, etc. It may include providing lines, areas, designs, shapes, patterns, etc. of small surface elements.

As used herein, two objects disposed or positioned “in a complementary manner” mean that the two objects have substantially the same overall shape, peripheral shape, design, and/or pattern, and are disposed or located on opposing surfaces of a substrate. means occupying substantially the same relative surface area. In embodiments comprising an object formed within a substrate (e.g., a visual element disposed within a substrate), the overall shape, peripheral shape, design, and/or pattern, and relative surface area of such object may be such that the corresponding object is complementary. The overall shape, surrounding shape, design, and/or pattern, and surface area of the object are projected onto the surface of the substrate opposite the surface on which it is disposed or positioned in such a manner. 37 shows a first visual element 710-1 positioned on a second surface 704 in a manner complementary to a first tactile element 712-1 on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. exemplifies. Similarly, FIG. 37 shows a second visual element 710 positioned on the second surface 704 in a manner complementary to the second tactile element 712-2 on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. -2) is exemplified.

In some embodiments, desirable visual effects can be achieved without placing objects in a complementary manner. In some embodiments, the at least one tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 is non-commentary with respect to the at least one visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 to produce a desirable visual effect. It may be arranged in a non-commentary fashion (e.g., offset fashion).

The tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 may comprise: (i) one or more zones of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, (ii) one or more lines of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, (iii) one or more patterns of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, (iv) one or more designs of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, and (v) one or more combinations thereof. Includes areas of surface roughness and/or small surface elements. By way of example only, the first tactile element 712-1 can be a circle formed through a line of raised surface roughness and/or small surface elements, or a line of reduced surface roughness and/or small surface elements, and the second tactile element 712-1 Tactile element 712-2 may be a triangle formed through lines of elevated surface roughness and/or small surface elements, or lines of reduced surface roughness and/or small surface elements. Again, those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many specific artistic elements included within the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2.

As discussed herein, the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 are positioned on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 in such a way that the first surface 702 serves as the outer surface of the article. It can be applied to . The first surface 702 of the substrate 700 may be subjected to a surface treatment to provide a degree of surface roughness (e.g., a hazing effect) that provides some tactile feedback to the user. . As described herein, the level of surface roughness and/or small surface elements can range from smooth (very small or no surface roughness and/or small surface elements) to velvety soft to achieve the goals of the design. ) can range from a medium surface roughness, such as a matte surface roughness, and/or medium small surface elements) to a very rough feel (a higher level of roughness and/or small surface elements). You can.

37 , at least some of the surface roughness portions (and/or small surface element portions) of the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 are visual element(s) 710-1, is positioned on the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 in a complementary manner with respect to at least a portion of the visual portion of 710-2). This arrangement can change the visual effect of visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 when viewed through first surface 702 of substrate 700. For example, in some forms, complementary arrangements can provide a three-dimensional visual effect, especially at some viewing angles.

In this example, the first tactile element 712-1 positioned in a complementary manner to the first visual element 710-1 has a complementary size and shape, such as a circle of the first visual element 710-1. This can be achieved via the first surface roughness portion (and/or the small surface element portion) of the first tactile element 712-1 in the form of a line (eg a circular outline). Similarly, second tactile element 712-2 positioned in a complementary manner to second visual element 710-2 may include lines of complementary size and shape, such as triangles of second visual element 710-2. This can be achieved through the second surface roughness portion (and/or the small surface element portion) of the second tactile element 712-2 in the form of (e.g. a triangular outline).

The surface roughness portion (and/or the small surface element portion) of the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 can be achieved in many ways. For example, a surface roughness portion (and/or a small surface element portion) may have a corresponding visual element(s) bounded by at least one zone of relatively lower surface roughness (and/or lower surface element height). ) (e.g., a circle, triangle, circular and/or triangular areas). One way to achieve this effect is: (i) a relatively smooth finish at a relatively low surface roughness (e.g., a matte finish surface roughness from no surface roughness or no surface element height, with slightly lower or lower surface roughness); or ranging from a moderate level of surface roughness, and/or to a medium level of surface element height), a majority of the total surface area of the first surface 702 of the substrate 700; and (ii) regions of relatively higher surface roughness, and/or higher surface element height, of the tactile element(s) 712-1 and/or 712-2 as a majority of the total surface area of first surface 702. (e.g., circular and/or triangular contours, circular and/or triangular zones), and relatively rougher surface roughness and/or surface element heights (e.g., intermediate levels of surface roughness) compared to a smooth finish. and/or comprising at least a portion of such circular and/or triangular contours (ranging from surface roughness and/or intermediate surface element heights to high levels of surface roughness and/or high surface element heights).

Optionally, the surface roughness portion and/or the surface element portion of the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 (e.g. in the form of a triangle or triangular outline) is at least of a relatively higher surface roughness. This can be achieved through zones of relatively lower surface roughness and/or lower surface element height positioned in a visually complementary manner bounded by a zone. One way to achieve this effect is: (i) from a relatively rough finish (e.g., slightly intermediate surface roughness, such as rougher than a matte finish surface roughness, and/or slightly intermediate surface element heights); , a majority of the total surface area of the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 (ranging to slightly higher levels of surface roughness and/or slightly higher levels of surface element heights); and (ii) a relatively lower surface roughness and/or a relatively lower surface element height of the tactile element(s) 712-1 and/or 712-2 as a small portion of the total surface area of the first surface 702. areas (e.g., circles, triangles, circular and/or triangular contours), and relatively smoother surface roughness and/or surface element heights compared to a rough finish (e.g., no surface roughness or and/or ranging from no surface element height to slightly lower levels of surface roughness and/or lower levels of surface element heights). .

A process for achieving application of at least one tactile element (712-1, 712-2) and at least one visual element (710-1, 710-2) to a substrate (700) includes: ) will be discussed with reference to Figures 38-39, which contain schematic images of the substrate along its movement. The steps illustrated and described are not exhaustive; Other steps may be performed before, after, or between any one of the steps described and illustrated. In some embodiments, steps may be performed in a different order. Variations of the process illustrated in Figures 38-39 are within the scope of this disclosure.

For the purposes of this example, at least one of the tactile elements 710-1, 710-2 is achieved through surface roughness characteristics. The process disclosed in FIGS. 38-39 is a relatively smoother process of at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2 positioned in a complementary manner relative to the at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2. , a process in which at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2 is achieved over most of the total surface area of the first surface 702 of the substrate 700, which are relatively higher surface roughness portions.

At step 750, substantially all of the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 is coated with an etch resistant material (e.g., an etch resistant ink, as shown in black in step 750). ) is masked. Next, at least the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 is treated with an acidic solution (etching solution) to produce a low to moderate surface roughness on the first surface 702, such as a matte finish surface roughness. exposure (e.g., immersion, spraying, etc.). The resulting matte finish is shown in gray in step 752, where the etch resistant ink is removed to expose a relatively smooth finish of the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 (step 752) shown in white). In some embodiments, the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 may not be directly masked with an etch-resistant material, but may instead be protected from the etching solution in an alternative manner. For example, step 752 may be performed on a substrate 700 defining a portion of an article (e.g., deadfront article 400), in which case the substrate 700 is etched in step 752. Any parts of the article that are not intended may be protected from the etching solution using suitable materials or devices.

In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 752 may include hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, and a water-miscible organic solvent. In some embodiments, the etching solution in step 752 includes 1-15 wt% (weight percent) hydrofluoric acid, 1-40 wt% ammonium fluoride, 0-35 wt% water-miscible organic solvent, and water. It can be included. In some embodiments, the etching solution of step 752 may include 4-10 wt% hydrofluoric acid, 5-30 wt% ammonium fluoride, 0-25 wt% water-miscible organic solvent, and water. . In some embodiments, the water-miscible organic solvent in the etching solution in step 752 may be alcohol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, or combinations thereof. Suitable alcohols include ethanol and iso-propanol.

At step 754, an etch-resistant material (e.g., an etch-resistant ink mask, shown in black at step 754) is applied to the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. In particular, the etch-resistant material is applied to achieve the aforementioned tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2, which will ultimately be complementary to the visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2. Again, substantially all of the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 may be masked or protected from the etching solution in step 754 (shown in black in step 754). Substrate 700 is re-exposed to an acid (etching) solution designed for polishing (reducing roughness) of unmasked areas of first surface 702 of substrate 700 (e.g., dipping, spraying, etc. )do. In some embodiments, the acid solution may also reduce the thickness of the substrate 700 in unmasked areas through material removal. The resulting matte finish and tactile elements are shown in step 756, where the etch-resistant material is removed to expose previously masked portions of first surface 702 (shown in dark gray in step 756). ). In particular, previously masked portions of first surface 702 will therefore have a higher surface roughness than unmasked areas of first surface 702, which have been polished and somewhat thinned. In an alternative embodiment, the first surface excluding the portion corresponding to the location of the tactile element(s) (712-1, 712-2) that will ultimately be complementary to the visual element(s) (710-1, 710-2). All portions of 702 may be masked at step 754. In this embodiment, the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 may have a lower surface roughness than an unmasked area around the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2.

In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 756 may include hydrofluoric acid. In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 756 may include 1-10 wt% hydrofluoric acid. In some embodiments, the etching solution of step 756 may include 5 wt% hydrofluoric acid.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the use of acids for etching and/or polishing has been described above as suitable for use for applying and/or altering the surface roughness or haze of the substrate 700, any other suitable method may be used, e.g. It will be appreciated that sandblasting, embossing, rolling, mechanical polishing, engraving, and/or vapor deposition (eg, chemical or physical vapor deposition) may be used. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciate that although ink printing has been described as one way to form an etch mask and/or visual element, any suitable alternative technique may be used, such as printing, screen printing, doctor blading, gravure printing, It will be appreciated that photolithography, etc. may be used.

In an optional step, the substrate 700 may also be exposed to a strengthening process, such as a thermal strengthening process or a chemical strengthening process (known in the art as an ion exchange process). In some embodiments, this selective strengthening process may be performed after step 756.

At step 758, at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 is disposed on the second surface 704 of the substrate 700. This includes disposing at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 in such a way that it is visible through the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. These are: (i) one or more zones of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or more images, (vi) one or more graphics, and (vii) Ink printing, ink spraying, masking techniques, coating techniques, photolithography, etc. may be used to provide one or more visual portions arranged in at least one of one or more combinations, or limited to at least one. In some embodiments, step 758 may include disposing one or more layers to form a deadfront article. For example, a semi-transparent layer (e.g., semi-transparent layer 460), a contrast layer (e.g., contrast layer 470), a color layer (e.g., color layer 650), and/ Alternatively, an opaque layer (e.g., opaque layer 510) may be disposed over second surface 704 of substrate 700 in step 758.

At step 760, a process to improve visibility of at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 through the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 may be performed. A vivid (preferably neutral) pigment layer, e.g., white, can be applied to the visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 on the second surface 704 via printing, coating, spraying, etc. ) can be applied above. The clear layer is shown in white in step 760. In some embodiments, the desired enhancement of the visibility of the visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 is such that the “clear” layer forms the visual element(s) 710-1, 710 on the second surface 704. -2) This can be achieved when a shiny black and/or metallic coating is applied on top.

An alternative process for achieving application of at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2 and at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 on a substrate 700 includes an alternative process: 40, which contains a schematic image of the substrate 700 as it moves through the substrate. For the purposes of this example, the at least one tactile element 710-1, 710-2 is again achieved through a surface roughness characteristic. The process disclosed in FIG. 40 involves at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2 being positioned in a complementary manner with respect to at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2. A process that is accomplished through a majority of the total surface area of the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 being the relatively high surface roughness portions of elements 712-1 and 712-2 and the relatively low surface roughness portions. The steps illustrated and described are not exhaustive; Other steps may be performed before, after, or between any of the steps described and illustrated. In some embodiments, steps may be performed in a different order. Variations of the process illustrated in Figure 40 are within the scope of this disclosure.

In step 780, substantially all of the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 is masked with an etch-resistant material (e.g., an etch-resistant ink, as shown in black in step 780) or or protected. In some embodiments, the second surface 704 of the substrate 700 may not be directly masked with an etch-resistant material, but may instead be protected from the etching solution in an alternative manner. For example, step 780 may be performed on a substrate 700 defining a portion of an article (e.g., deadfront article 400), in which case the substrate 700 is etched in step 780. Any parts of the article that are not intended may be protected from the etching solution using suitable materials or devices.

Additionally, an etch-resistant material (e.g., an etch-resistant ink mask, as shown in black in step 780) is applied to the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. In particular, an etch-resistant material is applied to the first surface 702 to achieve the at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2 described above.

Next, the substrate 700 is exposed to an acid solution (e.g. , immersion, spraying, etc.). Of course, alternative embodiments could use the acid solution in a way that creates a higher level of surface roughness. In step 782, the etch-resistant material is then applied to a first surface (among other parts) having a low to medium surface roughness (or optionally a higher level of roughness, shown in gray in step 782). 702) The relatively smooth finish on the surface (shown in white at step 782) may be removed to expose one or more areas, lines, patterns, designs, combinations thereof, etc.

In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 782 may include hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, and a water-miscible organic solvent. In some embodiments, the etching solution in step 782 includes 1-15 wt% (weight percent) hydrofluoric acid, 1-40 wt% ammonium fluoride, 0-35 wt% water-miscible organic solvent, and water. may include. In some embodiments, the etching solution in step 782 may include 4-10 wt% hydrofluoric acid, 5-30 wt% ammonium fluoride, 0-25 wt% water-miscible organic solvent, and water. there is. In some embodiments, the water-miscible organic solvent in the etching solution of step 782 can be alcohol, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, or combinations thereof. Suitable alcohols include ethanol and iso-propanol.

In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 782 may include hydrofluoric acid. In some embodiments, the etching solution used in step 782 may include 1-10 wt% hydrofluoric acid. In some embodiments, the etching solution of step 756 may include 5 wt% hydrofluoric acid.

At step 784, at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 is positioned on a second surface 704 of the substrate 700 (as indicated by the non-white surface 704 in step 782). ) is placed on the As discussed previously, this includes applying the visual element(s) 710-1, 710-2 in such a way that they are visible through the first surface 702. These are: (i) one or more zones of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or more images, (vi) one or more graphics, and (vii) It may include ink printing, ink spraying, masking, coating, photolithography, etc., to provide one or more visual portions arranged in, or limited to, at least one of one or more combinations thereof. In some embodiments, step 784 may include disposing one or more layers to form a deadfront article. For example, a semi-transparent layer (e.g., semi-transparent layer 460), a contrast layer (e.g., contrast layer 470), a color layer (e.g., color layer 650), and/ Alternatively, an opaque layer (e.g., opaque layer 510) may be disposed over second surface 704 of substrate 700 at step 784.

At step 786, a process may be performed to improve visibility of at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 through the first surface 702 of the substrate 700. A layer of bright (preferably neutral) pigment, e.g., white, may be deposited on the second surface 704 by printing, coating, spraying, etc., as shown in white in step 786. Applies over at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 on surface 704. As described above, the desirable enhancement of the visibility of at least one visual element 710-1, 710-2 is such that the “clear” layer is positioned on second surface 704 to form a visible layer of at least one visual element 710-1, 710 -2) Can optionally be achieved when a shiny black and/or metallic coating is applied on top.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that although the use of acids for etching and/or polishing has been described as being suitable for use in applying and/or modifying the surface roughness or haze of the substrate 700, any other suitable method, e.g., sand It will be appreciated that blasting, embossing, rolling, mechanical polishing, engraving, and/or deposition (eg, chemical or physical vapor deposition) may be used. Additionally, those skilled in the art will recognize that, although ink printing has been described as one way to form an etch mask and/or visual element, any suitable alternative technique may be used, such as printing, screen printing, doctor blading, gravure printing, photocopying, etc. It will be appreciated that lithography, etc. may be used.

38-40, the process described above results in two different levels of surface roughness to achieve at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that the mentioned steps in the process are used to achieve at least three different levels of surface roughness, which can enhance the visual and/or tactile effect of the tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2. It will be appreciated that modifications may be made (eg, by adding steps of masking, etching, polishing, and/or other techniques).

Moreover, one skilled in the art will recognize that the above-described process with respect to FIGS. 38-40 may be modified to achieve an alternative set of characteristics for at least one tactile element 712-1, 712-2. something to do. For example, the at least one tactile element(s) 712-1, 712-2 may be formed from at least two different levels of surface roughness and/or surface element height, any of which may be formed from the substrate 700 ) is not an unaltered, original, smooth surface finish.

For example, step 780 may include the above-described printing steps of an etch-resistant material (mask) and substantially all of the second surface 704 of the substrate 700. However, prior to applying the etch resistant material to the first surface 702, the substrate 700 is subjected to an acid solution to produce some level of surface roughness on the first surface 702, such as a matte finish surface roughness. may be exposed to (e.g., immersed, sprayed, etc.) An etch-resistant material (mask) is then applied to the first surface 702 of the substrate 700 (i.e., over the previously formed matte finish) to form at least one tactile element 712-1, 712- 2) is achieved.

Next, the substrate 700 is again exposed (e.g., dipped, sprayed, etc.) to the acid solution, adding to the unmasked portion of the first surface 702 a rougher surface than the previously created matte finish surface. Generates level of surface roughness. In step 782, the etch-resistant material is then removed from the first surface 702 to remove, among other portions, the higher level surface roughness (shown in gray at steps 782, 784 in FIG. 40). At 40, one or more areas, lines, patterns, designs, combinations thereof, etc. may be exposed, which may be a matte finish surface roughness (represented by white lines in steps 782, 784).

Next, the remainder of the process previously discussed in relation to steps 784 and 786 of FIG. 40 can be performed, which includes at least one tactile element 712-1 formed with at least two different levels of surface roughness. 712-2), none of which is the unaltered, original, smooth surface finish of the substrate 700. Although this process results in two different levels of surface roughness to achieve at least one tactile element (712-1, 712-2), one skilled in the art will understand that the steps in the process can be used to achieve three or more different levels of surface roughness. It will be appreciated that modifications may be made (eg, by adding steps of masking, etching, polishing, and/or other techniques).

41 and 42 illustrate a deadfront article 800 according to some embodiments. 41 illustrates an article 800 with visual elements 810 of the article 800 shown when backlit. 42 illustrates an article 800 with a tactile element 830 of the article 800 shown when not backlit.

Deadfront article 800 includes a substrate 801 . Substrate 801 may be the same or similar to any of the substrates discussed herein and includes a first surface 802 and a second surface 804 opposite the first surface 802. Visual element 810 may be disposed within substrate 801 and/or second surface 804 of substrate 801 such that visual element 810 is visible through first surface 802 . Visual elements 810 may include one or more graphics 820 that are viewable through first surface 802 when article 800 is backlit (see FIG. 41). In some embodiments, one or more graphics 820 include or are icons. In some embodiments, visual element 810 may include multiple individual visual elements that include one or more graphics. For example, visual element 810 may include a plurality of printed, coated, sprayed, etc. layers or materials containing one or more graphics.

As used herein, an “icon” is an area, line, shape, pattern, design, image, symbol, letter, number, logo, or combination thereof that represents one or more functions of a device. When actuated by a user (e.g., via touch), the icon will produce the functional result indicated by the icon. For example, the on/off icon turns the device on or off. As another example, the “volume” icon will cause the device to produce louder or quieter sound. Icons may also be called buttons.

Article 800 also includes at least one tactile element 830 formed on first surface 802 of substrate 801. As discussed herein, the tactile element(s) 830 may include one or more surface roughness portions, at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions being complementary to all or a portion of the visual element(s) 810. is positioned on the first surface 802 in a manner. For example, the tactile element(s) 830 may include one or more surface roughness portions, at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions. is positioned on first surface 802 in a manner complementary to graphic 820. Tactile element(s) 830 may, when article 800 is not backlit, determine the appearance of a deadfront material (e.g., carbon fiber, stainless steel, wood, etc.) imaged on first surface 802. creates a haptic sensation of the user touching the first surface 802 while maintaining In some embodiments, the tactile element(s) 830 may be faintly visible at the first surface 802.

As used herein, a first object (e.g., a tactile element) “formed” on a surface of a second object (e.g., a substrate) means that the first object is formed directly on the surface of the second object. means that A first object formed on a surface of a second object is formed by depositing a material on the surface, removing a material from the surface, and/or chemically altering one or more surface properties of the surface. It can be. Suitable methods for forming a first object on the surface of a second object include etching (e.g., etching with acid), polishing, sandblasting, engraving, embossing, rolling, and/or deposition (e.g., including, but not limited to, chemical or physical vapor deposition). Formation of a first object on a surface of a second object can change one or more properties of the surface, including, but not limited to, surface geometry, surface roughness, haze, and reflectivity. In some embodiments, the tactile element(s) 830 may be an etched surface portion formed, for example, by an etching process described with respect to FIGS. 38-39 or 40.

Deadfront article 800 also includes a deadfront assembly 840 disposed on second surface 804. Deadfront assembly 840 may include any of the layers described herein to form a deadfront article. For example, deadfront assembly 840 may include a semi-transparent layer (e.g., semi-transparent layer 460), a contrast layer (e.g., contrast layer 470), and a color layer (e.g., color layer). layer 650), and/or an opaque layer (e.g., opaque layer 510). For example, Figure 42 illustrates a semi-transparent layer 850 disposed on second surface 804 and visible through first surface 802 when the article is not backlit.

As another example, deadfront assembly 840 includes a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer (e.g., contrast layer 470) such that the contrast layer is positioned between the high optical density layer and the semi-transparent layer. A density layer (e.g., an opaque layer 510) may be included. In this embodiment, the high optical density layer may at least partially define one or more graphics 820. In some embodiments, deadfront article 800 may include a touch panel (e.g., touch panel 660) positioned behind visual element 810, wherein the touch panel detects a touch by a user (e.g. For example, one or more graphics are configured to respond to touch (820). In such embodiments, the touch panel may be configured to respond to a user's touch of a graphic 820, which may be an icon.

In some embodiments, the portion of first surface 802 occupied by tactile element(s) 830 may be relatively rougher (i.e., rougher) than all or a portion of the remainder of first surface 802. can have high surface roughness). In this embodiment, the tactile element(s) 830 may have an R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm.

In some embodiments, the portion of first surface 802 occupied by tactile element(s) 830 may be relatively smoother (i.e., smoother) than all or a portion of the remainder of first surface 802. may have low surface roughness). In this embodiment, all or a portion of the first surface 802 around the tactile element(s) 830 may have an R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm.

In some embodiments, deadfront article 800 may be made using processes including one or more processes described herein with reference to FIGS. 38-40. In this embodiment, the method of forming the tactile element(s) 830 on the deadfront article 800 includes forming the graphics 820 within the substrate 801 and so that they can be viewed through the first surface 802. /or in a manner complementary to the graphic 820 of the visual element 810 disposed on the second surface 804 of the substrate 801 opposite the first surface 802 ( and forming at least one tactile element 830 on 802).

Aspect (1) of the present disclosure includes: a first surface; and a second surface opposite the first surface; a visual element disposed on and/or within a second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface; At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and comprising one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically complementary to the first surface of the substrate. a tactile element located on the surface; a semi-transparent layer disposed on at least a first portion of the second surface of the substrate, the semi-transparent layer having an area of a single color or an area of a design of two or more colors; and a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the region, wherein the contrast layer enhances the visibility of the colors of the region or enhances the colors of the design of the region on the portion of the region on which the contrast layer is disposed. A deadfront article configured to enhance contrast between

Aspect (2) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (1), wherein the one or more surface roughness portions are: (i) bounded by at least one zone of relatively lower surface roughness; (ii) a zone of relatively higher surface roughness, and (ii) a zone of relatively lower surface roughness bounded by at least one zone of relatively higher surface roughness.

Aspect (3) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (1) or (2), wherein the graphic includes an icon.

Aspect (4) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any of aspects (1) to (3), wherein the one or more surface roughness portions comprise an etched portion of the first surface of the substrate.

Aspect (5) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any one of aspects (1) to (4), wherein a majority of the total surface area of the first surface of the substrate comprises a first surface roughness; ; and the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile element cover a small portion of the total surface area of the first surface and include a second surface roughness that is different from the first surface roughness.

Aspect (6) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (5), wherein the second surface roughness is relatively rougher than the first surface roughness.

Aspect (7) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (6), wherein the second surface roughness comprises an R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm.

Aspect (8) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (5), wherein the first surface roughness is relatively rougher than the second surface roughness.

Aspect (9) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (8), wherein the first surface roughness comprises an R _a surface roughness greater than about 80 nm.

Aspect (10) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any one of aspects (1) to (9), wherein the substrate comprises a material selected from the group consisting of glass, glass ceramic, and polymer.

Aspect (11) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any one of aspects (1) to (10), wherein the substrate includes tempered glass.

Aspect (12) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any of aspects (1) to (11), further comprising a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer, wherein the contrast layer comprises: It is located between the high optical density layer and the semi-transparent layer.

Aspect (13) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (11), wherein the high optical density layer at least partially defines the graphics.

Aspect (14) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of aspect (13), wherein in at least a portion of the visual element defined by the high optical density layer, the contrast layer is positioned between the semi-transparent layer and the color layer. Preferably, it further includes a color layer disposed in the area of the visual element.

Aspect (15) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any one of aspects (1) to (14), wherein the region of the semi-transparent layer has a design of two or more colors, and the design is a leather It includes at least one of a grain pattern, a wood grain pattern, a fabric pattern, a brushed metal finish pattern, and a logo.

Aspect (16) of the present disclosure relates to the deadfront article of any one of aspects (1) to (15), wherein it further comprises a touch panel positioned behind the visual element, wherein the touch panel is It is configured to respond to touch.

Aspect 17 is a first surface; and a second surface opposite the first surface; a visual element disposed on and/or within a second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface; At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and comprising one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically complementary to the first surface of the substrate. a tactile element located on the surface; a semi-transparent layer disposed on a second surface of the substrate layer; a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the semi-transparent layer; and a high optical density layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer and at least partially defining the graphic; and a touch panel located behind the visual element and configured to respond to a touch by a user.

Aspect 18 relates to the automobile interior of Aspect 17, wherein the graphic is an icon and the touch panel is configured to respond to a user's touch of the icon.

Aspect (19) relates to the automobile interior of either Aspect (17) or Aspect (18), wherein the semi-transparent layer has an area of a solid color or an area of two or more designs, the design comprising: a leather grain pattern, It includes at least one of a wood grain pattern, a fabric pattern, a brushed metal finish pattern, and a logo.

Aspect (20) relates to the automobile interior of any of Aspects (17) to (19), wherein the high optical density layer is such that the contrast layer is positioned between the high optical density layer and the semi-transparent layer. disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer.

Aspect (21) relates to the automobile interior of aspect (20), wherein in at least a portion of the visual element defined by the optically dense layer, the contrast layer is located between the semi-transparent layer and the color layer. It further includes a color layer disposed in the area.

Aspect (22) relates to a method of forming a tactile element on a deadfront article, the method comprising: forming a device in the substrate and/or opposite the first surface, such that a graphic is visible through the first surface; 2 comprising forming at least one tactile element on the first surface of the substrate in a manner complementary to the graphics defined by the visual elements disposed on the surface; Here, the at least one tactile element is formed by a process including at least one of etching, sandblasting, polishing, and engraving.

Aspect (23) relates to a method of forming a tactile element on the deadfront article of aspect (22), wherein the at least one tactile element is formed by an etching process.

Aspect (24) relates to a method of forming a tactile element on the deadfront article of aspect (23), wherein the etching process includes: etching a first surface with a first etching solution; etching the first surface with the first etching solution and then placing a mask over the first surface, the mask comprising a shape corresponding to the shape of the graphic; and etching unmasked areas of the first surface with the second etching solution.

Aspect (25) relates to the method of forming a tactile element on the deadfront article of Aspect (24), wherein the first etching solution comprises hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, and a water-miscible organic solvent; The second etching solution includes hydrofluoric acid.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, any method described herein is not intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order. Accordingly, unless a method claim actually enumerates the order in which its steps must be followed or unless it is specifically stated in the claims or detailed description that the steps are limited to that particular order, it is not intended to be construed as any particular order. . Additionally, as used herein, the terms “singular” are intended to include more than one element or element and are not intended to be construed to mean just one.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. Since modifications, combinations, sub-combinations and changes of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the embodiments may occur to those skilled in the art, the disclosed embodiments are intended to include all within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. It should be interpreted as

As used herein, the term “or” is inclusive; More specifically, the phrase “A or B” means “A, B, or both A and B.” Exclusive “or” is indicated herein, for example, in terms such as “either A or B” or “either A or B.”

As used herein, terms "singular", "singular", and "singular" are used to describe elements and components of the invention. The use of these singular terms refers to one or at least one of the elements and components. These singular forms are commonly used to indicate that the noun modified is a singular noun, but as used herein, “singular” includes plurals, unless otherwise stated in a particular instance.

As used in the claims, “comprising” is an open transition phrase. The list of elements following the transition phrase "comprising" is a non-exclusive list, and elements other than those specifically mentioned in the list may also be present. As used in the claims, “consisting essentially of” or “consisting essentially of” limits the composition of materials to those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the specified materials and materials. As used in the claims, “consisting of” or “consisting entirely of” limits the composition of materials to the specified materials and excludes any materials not specified.

The term “where” is used as an open-ended transitional phrase, to introduce an enumeration of a series of features of the structure.

Unless otherwise stated in a particular context, when a range of numerical values, including upper and lower values, is recited herein, the range is intended to include the endpoints thereof and all integers and fractions within the range. The scope of the claims is not intended to be limited to the specific values recited when defining the scope. Moreover, when an amount, concentration, or other value or parameter is given as a range, a list of one or more preferred ranges or upper preferred values and a lower preferred value, this means that there is any upper range or preferred value and any lower range or preferred value. All ranges formed from pairs of are to be construed as specifically disclosed, regardless of whether such pairs are individually disclosed. Finally, when the term “about” is used to describe a range of values or end-points, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or end-point recited. Whether or not the numerical value or end-point of the range cites “about”, the numerical value or end-point of the range includes two embodiments, one modified by “about” and one not modified by “about”. It is intended to.

As used herein, the term "about" means that amounts, sizes, ranges, dosage forms, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and do not have to be precise, and are not subject to tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, or measurements. It is meant to be approximate and/or larger or smaller than desired, reflecting tolerances and the like, and other factors known to those skilled in the art.

As used herein, the terms “substantially”, “substantially” and variations thereof are intended to indicate that the described feature is the same or substantially the same as the value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to refer to a surface that is planar or substantially planar. Furthermore, “substantially” is intended to indicate that two values are the same or approximately the same. In some embodiments, “substantially” can refer to values that are within about 10% of each other, for example, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

The embodiment(s) have been described above with the aid of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of specified functions and their relationships. The boundaries of these functional building blocks are arbitrarily defined herein for ease of explanation. Optional boundaries may be delimited as long as the specified functions and their relationships are properly performed.

It is to be understood that any phrases or terms used herein are for the purpose of description and are not intended to be limiting. The breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any one of the pre-described representative embodiments, but should be defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (25)

As a deadfront article,
substrate, the substrate is
first surface; and
comprising a second surface opposite the first surface;
a visual element disposed on and/or within a second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface;
At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and comprising one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically complementary to the first surface of the substrate. a tactile element located on the surface;
a semi-transparent layer disposed on at least a first portion of the second surface of the substrate, the semi-transparent layer having an area of a single color or an area of a design of two or more colors; and
a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the region, the contrast layer enhancing the visibility of the colors of the region or creating a contrast layer between the colors of the design of the region on the portion of the region over which the contrast layer is disposed. A deadfront article configured to enhance contrast. In claim 1,
The one or more surface roughness portions include: (i) a region of relatively higher surface roughness bounded by at least one region of relatively lower surface roughness, and (ii) at least one region of relatively higher surface roughness. A deadfront article defined by one of the zones of relatively lower surface roughness bounded by the zone. In claim 1 or 2,
A deadfront article, wherein the one or more surface roughness portions comprise an etched portion of the first surface of the substrate. In claim 1 or 2,
a portion of the total surface area of the first surface of the substrate comprising a first surface roughness; and
A deadfront article, wherein the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile element cover the remainder of the total surface area of the first surface and include a second surface roughness that is different from the first surface roughness. In claim 1 or 2,
A deadfront article, wherein the substrate comprises a material selected from the group consisting of glass, glass ceramic, and polymer. In claim 1 or 2,
The dead front product is
A deadfront article, comprising an opaque layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer, wherein the contrast layer is positioned between the opaque layer and the semi-transparent layer. In claim 1 or 2,
The deadfront article further includes a touch panel positioned behind the visual element, the touch panel configured to respond to touch by a user. As a car interior,
Deadfront goods, the deadfront goods
substrate, the substrate is
first surface; and
comprising a second surface opposite the first surface;
a visual element disposed on and/or within a second surface of the substrate and visible through the first surface, the visual element comprising graphics visible through the first surface;
At least one tactile element formed on a first surface of the substrate and comprising one or more surface roughness portions, wherein at least one of the one or more surface roughness portions is graphically complementary to the first surface of the substrate. a tactile element located on the surface;
a semi-transparent layer disposed on a second surface of the substrate;
a contrast layer disposed on at least a portion of the semi-transparent layer; and
an opaque layer disposed on at least a portion of the contrast layer and at least partially defining the graphic; and
An automotive interior comprising a touch panel positioned behind the visual element and configured to respond to a touch by a user. In claim 8,
wherein the graphic is an icon and the touch panel is configured to respond to a user's touch of the icon. at least on a first surface of the substrate in a manner complementary to the graphic defined by a visual element disposed within the substrate and/or on a second surface of the substrate opposite the first surface, such that the graphic is visible through the first surface. forming a tactile element;
wherein the at least one tactile element is formed by a process comprising at least one of etching, sandblasting, polishing, and engraving.
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